Community

Teacher asks community for support

“I believe that all parents want their children to succeed and want their child to have everything they need,” said Denisha McCluney, a teacher with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools. “I also believe that sometimes other priorities, such as shelter, clothing and food may supersede a school supply list for some families."
McCluney is one of many educators who benefits from the distribution programs organized by Classroom Central, Classroom Central’s, a nonprofit that provides school supplies for students living in poverty.
“Classroom Central has been a blessing to myself and my scholars. I know that each month I will have an opportunity to restock my classroom with things that we are constantly running out of like paper, pencils and crayons,” said McCluney.
With the school year approaching, McCluney knows that about 60 percent of her students will not have the proper school supplies needed for class.
“Every year, I have had students who did not bring supplies. While one family may be able to get all the supplies needed, others may have to consider other household responsibilities,” said McCluney.
In partnership with Communities in Schools Charlotte-Mecklenburg and Classroom Central, WSOC-TV collects school supplies that are distributed to students in grades K-12. These items play a big role in preparing students to be successful in the upcoming school year.
Classroom Central relies heavily on donations from the 9 School Tools Campaign.
“The 9 School Tools Campaign is of vital importance to the students and teachers served by Classroom Central,” said Greg Meitus, director of marketing and communications at Classroom Central. “Without 9 School Tools, we would have to raise additional funds to purchase pencils, paper and folders.”
From July 10 through Aug. 25, you can donate school supplies and necessary items at over 40 donation locations across the Carolinas.  You can find your nearest donation location by clicking on this link for 9 School Tools Donation Locations.
“As teachers, we have to be resourceful, so even a small donation can make a difference,” said McCluney.I believe coming to school not prepared may send a message to a young child that, because they do not have what they need, they do not belong. Having a sense of belonging is a basic need children need met in order to learn.”
If your organization or business would like to get involved or help with 9 School Tools, or if you have an inspiring story to share, please email Kevin Campbell, community affairs manager for WSOC-TV, at Kevin.Campbell@wsoctv.com
 Learn more about the 9 School Tools at www.9SchoolTools.com.