Lexington County, SC 10/08/2024 - In the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Helene, charter school communities and leaders across South Carolina have stepped up to ensure that no one faces the storm's impact alone. Demonstrating resilience and unity, these schools have become beacons of hope and recovery. The swift actions taken by these school leaders and communities underscore the culture of compassion, collaboration, and service that defines South Carolina's charter schools, proving that even in the darkest times, these institutions shine brightly as pillars of support for their communities.
AMERICAN LEADERSHIP ACADEMY – LEXINGTON
On Sunday, September 29, American Leadership Academy (ALA) in Lexington organized an impromptu supply and food drive to support families affected by Hurricane Helene. The response was incredible - cars lined up at the lower school car line from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., with families generously donating essential supplies like water, paper products, shelf-stable food, and batteries. The outpouring of support was so overwhelming that ALA ended up with surplus supplies. On Monday, the school opened its doors, welcoming both upper and lower school families to collect what they needed. Volunteers were on hand to assist, offering a helping hand and demonstrating the school’s RAISE Values (Respect, Accountability, Integrity, Service, and Excellence).
GRAY COLLEGIATE ACADEMY
At Gray Collegiate Academy in West Columbia, the War Eagles wasted no time in offering help to harder-hit regions of the state. When Dr. Brian Newsome, the school leader, learned that a medical team from Self Regional Healthcare needed ice to transport vital supplies, Gray responded swiftly. They provided enough ice to fill 22 coolers, ensuring perishable materials remained preserved. In addition, Gray's team also offered snacks and refreshments to local linemen working tirelessly to restore power in Aiken and Augusta. The school’s Senior Student Council took the initiative to organize a supply drive, gathering flashlights, toiletries, and non-perishable food for those in need across the Carolinas. This supply drive is still ongoing at the school!
PHOTO CAPTION: Supply drive at the American Learning Academy
PHOTO CAPTION: Grays Collegiate
Comments