Colleagues setting up scholarship in honor of Charles City teacher who fell to COVID-19

By Bob Steenson, bsteenson@charlescitypress.com

Friends and colleagues of a former Charles City teacher who died after catching COVID-19 are working to establish a scholarship in her memory.

Darla Arends, a special education teacher at Charles City High School for 25 years, died Nov. 6 from complications of the disease. She was 58 years old, and had tested positive for COVID-19 in September.

“We are inviting anyone in the community to donate to the Darla Arends Scholarship Fund in any amount you are comfortable giving,” said Marilyn Buttjer, a high school German teacher who retired in 2018.

“Darla touched the lives of students and their families, having good rapport with parents as well as students,” Buttjer said.

She said the deadline for initial donations is Dec. 12, but they would like to receive them by Friday, Dec. 4. Donations can be sent to Ann Perry at 2712 – 155th St., or to Marilyn Buttjer at 1911 Salzer St., both in Charles City, IA 50616.

“Thank you for honoring our friend, Darla Arends, who we are remembering by giving one or more scholarships in her name to a deserving past or present graduate who plans to continue the legacy of lifelong learning through a career in teaching or in a technical career,” Buttjer said.

School officials estimated Arends had taught more than 500 special education students during her career in Charles City.

Herself challenged by health and mobility issues, colleagues said Arends was a fierce advocate for differently-abled students.