HARRISON — An Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School senior wants young students to get a good start next fall.

For her senior project, Dehlia Shaw of Albany Township presented a dozen backpacks and school supplies last week to students in grades three through six at Harrison Elementary School. She will present several more to students in kindergarten through second grade at Waterford Elementary School.

“I know how scarce school supplies are and how much this means to the schools,” Shaw said.

The senior project is a graduation requirement for the approximately 265 members of the Class of 2015. Projects must in some way contribute to the community. Students present their projects to a panel of in-house judges.

Shaw said she has a passion for helping young people, particularly students she knows at Harrison Elementary School where sister and brother attend. She attended Waterford Elementary School and baby-sits during PTO functions there.

“I love kids,” Shaw said.

Shaw said she hopes to attend the University of Maine to become a registered nurse and perhaps specialize in pediatric nursing. She recently took an exam to become a certified nursing assistant — her first step toward that goal.

She said she hopes to combine her desire for international travel with her career choice.

Shaw said she contacted New Balance shoe company, which donated the supplies, and Wal-Mart, which donated the book bags.

“It’s been very rewarding,” she said while handing out school supplies and having the children thank her.

The Class of 2015 will at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 6, at Gouin Athletic Complex on Alpine Street.

ldixon@sunmediagroup.net

ldixon@sunmediagroup.net