The H. Frank Carey High School Class of 2000 has decided to leave a gift to the rest of the school: a "bus shelter" near the front entrance to protect students from rain, sleet or snow when they're waiting for their ride home. "It's very convenient for me when I'm waiting for my parents. If it's raining or something, I'm protected," said Johanna DeJose, a junior at Carey and an active member of the Clipper, Model UN and the musical. Therefore, with all those after-school activities keeping her late into the evening, Johanna now feels less vulnerable to the elements.

Every year, the graduating class at Carey High School has to leave the high school with a zero balance left in their financial account. Most classes usually spend their extra money on trips, parties or scholarships. This year's class decided to do something that would benefit all students involved in extra-curricular activities, and for a long time to come. "I like the idea because if the students have to wait for their parents and it's raining, it provides shelter and they're also in full view," said English teacher Harris Insler, who also serves as one of the varsity track coaches, and understands that many children come back from track meets at 7 or 8 p.m. and must wait in the cold and dark for their ride.

After much planning and with much help from Mr. Tramontano, member of the Dad's Club, parent to two Carey students and the owner of a construction company, the concrete was laid and the shelter was set up in a matter of days. It is clearly one of the most practical, useful and enduring gifts ever given to Carey High School. Carey principal Tom Dolan had this to say about the shelter: "It represents what can happen when an entire school community unites to move towards some productive ends."

Made from Plexiglas, equipped with benches and constructed with four steel barriers in front of it for safety, the Class of 2000 will always be remembered for doing this because of the big "2000" sign etched in the concrete in front of the shelter. "I think the bus shelter is a generous expression of the Class of 2000's deep commitment to H. Frank Carey and our community. I'm very proud of the Class of 2000," said Ms. Cynthia Woodhouse, the very hardworking advisor of the senior class.