Parents pitch in to thank teachers at local school

WARWICK, R.I. (WPRI) -- Teachers at Saint Rose of Lima School in Warwick received an unexpected and touching surprise when they returned from winter break to find their faculty lounge underwent a complete makeover.

While students and teachers were off for winter break, members of Saint Rose's Home-School Association and a group of parent volunteers worked tirelessly to clean, paint and transform the space into something more inviting and relaxing.

• Photos: School lounge gets surprise makeover

Teachers were stunned and some even cried when the makeover was unveiled Monday during a ceremony before the entire school.

"The teachers work so hard and are amazingly dedicated to our school," said HSA President Amanda Silvia. "We wanted to brighten up the lounge and make it a happy place for them to recharge."

Cardi's Furniture donated the furniture for the lounge and Nick, Ron and Pete Cardi attended Monday's unveiling.

"Our outreach in the community is very important and we are pleased to be able to assist St. Rose of Lima School in this worthwhile endeavor," said Ben DeCastro, promotions manager for Cardi's Furniture.

Before any work began, Silvia said the HSA got the ok from Jeannine Fuller, the school's principal, and Fr. Edward J. Wilson, Jr., pastor of SS. Rose & Clement Parish.

"Saint Rose of Lima School is a wonderful family that is mindful of the Gospel's teachings to place other's needs before our own. Together, parents and teachers demonstrate to our children, through words and actions, the love that Christ has for all of us," Fr. Wilson said.