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CEDAR RAPIDS — Sylvia Peterson, a volunteer at Prairie Hill Elementary School, is one of the first to arrive each morning at 6:45 a.m.

For more than a decade, Peterson, 74, has volunteered full-time at the school, putting in more than eight hours each day, five days a week.

Many of the teachers consider her essential. She even has her own desk. She considers them family.

“Oh my gosh, I love the kids. I love them. If I can make a difference in one child’s life each day, that makes a difference for me. If they come in and just need a hug, I’m here for that,” Peterson said.

Peterson is one of 1,758 volunteers contributing to 15,125 hours served in the College Community School District during t

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