by Britney Morgan, Communications Officer
brmorgan@atlanta.k12.ga.us
Comcast, Scripps Network Interactive and 100 Black Men of Atlanta partnered to bring Comcast Cares Day to West Manor Elementary School.
Volunteers from the various companies, along with students, staff and community members collaborated to create an outdoor classroom with benches, landscaping and a container garden.
West Manor principal, Dr. Reginald Lawrence, explained that the outdoor classroom would enhance the students’ learning environment. “The outside classroom will allow students to explore their environment during science and provide a place where they can brainstorm as they enter into the writing process,” said Lawrence.
Over 200 volunteers split into teams to give the school a beautiful update. Television host James Young from the DIY Network show “I Hate My Kitchen” was the team leader for the creation of the outdoor classroom benches.
Other volunteers included Atlanta Board of Education Member, Cynthia Briscoe Brown, Atlanta City Council President Caesar Mitchell and former NFL Player Jamal Lewis. Dr. Lawrence said that he was filled with pride seeing the number of community members that came out to support the school.
Along with the update, Comcast donated $25,000 to the school. The financial donation will be utilized to increase technology, provide incentives for students and enhance instructional programs.
“The donation was an added bonus that will assist the school with our achievement goals. It is great to have an organization such as Comcast recognize the school with such a gift,” said Lawrence.
West Manor is also a Target/ Heart of America Foundation library makeover winner. The school’s library will be remodeled and stocked with thousands of new books.
