By Emily Mann
Each year, the Kings Foundation dedicates itself to serving underprivileged members of the Sacramento region during the Season of Doing Good. This year, in addition to lending a hand to people in need, the Foundation wanted to recognize one very special teacher and her devotion to a unique set of high school students.
As a dedicated Kings fan for over 30 years, Florence Lemieux not only held season tickets from 1987 to 2015, but also covered her classroom at Valley High School with a bevy of team memorabilia for her students to enjoy.
“When I heard about Mrs. Lemieux and her passion as a fan and teacher, I knew we had to thank her for her dedication,” said Betty Low, Director of Community Impact. “Decorating her classroom was a great reflection on where the team has been and where it is heading—all while honoring such a unique woman.”
With help from Valley High School’s vice principals, Kings volunteers gained access to Mrs. Lemieux’s classroom earlier this month to decorate. The volunteers hung up autographed photos, posters, banners, and pennants on her walls as well as placed bobbleheads and an autographed basketball in her room.
Then came the surprise.
Unaware of what was waiting for her, Mrs. Lemieux entered her classroom the following Monday morning where she was greeted by Slamson, the Sacramento Kings Dancers and Kings volunteers—all there to present her newly, decorated classroom.
“This is the greatest thing that has ever happened to me!” exclaimed Mrs. Lemieux over and over to the volunteers.
With tears in her eyes, Mrs. Lemieux was presented with a gift pack from Blue Diamond, a customized jersey and a Classroom Innovation Grant for $1,985. Touched by the generosity of the Kings Foundation, Mrs. Lemieux looks to put the grant towards new technology to better enhance the experience of her students, many of whom require special needs assistance.
“Mrs. Lemieux does such incredible work with young people who require a lot of talent and energy,” said Scott Moak, Vice President of Community Impact. “It is people like her who are making such a positive impact in our community that we want to acknowledge and give credit to.”
The Sacramento Kings Foundation plans to treat Mrs. Lemieux and her students to an upcoming game this season.