8 DECEMBER 2019

Couple Celebrates Wedding with Book Donation

Two hundred Maple Elementary School 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders were surprised on Monday, December 2 when newlyweds Jay Leblang and Stephanie Cantor arrived in their classrooms to give each child a book from their “wish list”.

“Mr. Jay” and “Miss Steph”, who live in London but have Maryland roots, were married on Saturday, November 30 at the Hyatt. To celebrate their marriage, they decided to support a local school and worked with teachers at Maple Elementary to secretly find out the reading preferences of each student. When ordering the books for the students, they also ordered an extra copy for the school library, bringing the total donation to over 400 books.

“When our wedding guests found out our plan, they wanted to contribute to help out,” said Jay. “They also wrapped the students’ books at the reception. Even the Hyatt staff got involved.”

Steph added, “We couldn’t imagine coming to Dorchester County to get married and not connecting with the community in some way. We hope this gives others the idea to do the same.”

Maple principal Rachel Wise said, “This was such a wonderful and imaginative gesture by Steph and Jay, and we can’t thank them enough. The kids were so excited!”

An excited 3rd grader celebrates his new book.                                                                                    Steph Cantor and Jay Leblang (center) with Director of Schools and Instruction Regina Teat (left), and Superintendent of Schools Dave Bromwell (right).

W. David Bromwell
Interim Superintendent