It’s that time of year where every Lower School student is fortunate to take home a book of their very own. The annual Piszek Family Book Gifting Assembly was kicked off by Elle M. ’32 and Izzy C. ’32 from 5M. The Piszek Family has been donating books every year since 2008. But what first gave them the idea to give books to Germantown Academy? Head of Lower School Sue Szczepkowski spoke about how Bill Piszek ’77 learned from his father Edward Piszek 1760, the importance of giving when you have been lucky enough to be successful. Edward Piszek even wrote a book about it called, “Some Good in the World – A Life of Purpose.”

Sadly, Bill passed away two years ago. His spirit, however, lives on as these books are donated to happy students, as his family enjoys continuing the tradition. His wife, Beth Piszek, and his children, Andrew Piszek ’18 and Ashley Piszek ’15, traveled from Georgia to GA and were so excited to deliver the books. When one student asked, “What does it feel like to give away these books?” Beth Piszek said, “So elated, so happy. Books can take me on adventures, and some teach me how to do things. Either way they make me so happy.”

At the end of the assembly, students received their brand-new book, “My Indigo Book,” by Rosa Chang. The book donation was even more special because Chang had visited earlier in the year and taught students how to make beautiful designs using indigo and muslin, which students truly enjoyed.

As each book was personally handed out by the Piszek Family, the students looked them in the eye, shook their hands, and said thank you. One student was so happy to receive the book he said, “Thank you, Mr. Piszek. As soon as we are done here, I’m going to go read the whole thing!” What could be better than that?