Connor McMahon was a 23-year-old graduate of Fraser High School. He had just completed his first year of teaching in the social studies department at his alma mater when he was killed in a hit-and-run-accident on I-94 in June 2023.
To honor Connor’s memory, students created a thrift store in his old classroom at Fraser High School. The store opened last fall and, according to Superintendent of Fraser Public Schools, Carrie Wozniak, it has already made a huge impact on the students.
What the store’s purpose is
“Its purpose is to provide our students with clothes or other items that they may need to have due to financial hardship,” says Wozniak. “Also, a lot of kids like the idea of recycling and reusing clothing.”
The shop is open during school hours, and the students can come in and browse like they would an actual thrift store.
“Kids can come in and shop every day and can take three items for free,” she says. “They can take what they need and there is no judgement.”
What the store looks like
Since the classroom belonged to Connor, some of his belongings are still there. For instance, he loved Star Wars and comics, so the walls are adorned with Spiderman and Darth Vader cut outs.
“Jim Socha is the social studies teacher who runs the store now,” says Wozniak. “A little while after Connor passed away, Mr. Socha thought it would be a good time to start it and a positive way to honor his memory.”
The store has racks and tables throughout with clothing washed and then hung up or folded neatly on the tables. There are toiletries, too.
“Mr. Socha, Fraser High School Social Studies Teacher, handles all of the organization of the store,” she says. “Connor’s parents and brother appreciate knowing that their son’s legacy lives on within the school that he went to and taught at.”
Keeping Connor’s memory alive
“He was a very easygoing and kind-natured person,” she says. “He really loved teaching, and his career ended before it ever really had a chance to take off.”
Students can come in and shop, but also look around the classroom that once belonged to Connor.
“His career was on a track to reach so many kids and make an impact on them,” says Wozniak. “I’m very glad to see his memory has stayed alive with this store.”
She explains that the thrift store is just about being kind and it is about giving to those in need, which is something that reminded her of Connor. A quote from Connor’s college commencement speech now serves as the store’s slogan: “It’s for the kids.”
“The thrift store is a reflection of what Connor believed in and about helping others when they need it,” she says.
Where to donate
When school is back in session in the fall, the staff will start taking donations again during school hours.
“There is a donation box in the main office of Fraser High School,” says Wozniak. Students can donate items such as clothing, backpacks and toiletries – anything they think a student might need.”
For more information on living and learning in Macomb County, visit Make Macomb Your Home. Find more articles like this at Metro Parent’s A Family Guide to Macomb County.
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