2018 SCHOOL PARTNERS OF THE YEAR
Arnold Mill Elementary School: Walmart of Woodstock
The Walmart of Woodstock encourages shoppers to “Live Better,” and its support of Arnold Mill Elementary School makes the lives of teachers there better each month. The store sponsors gift cards for the school’s Teacher of the Month program, and assists the school throughout the year. In the Principal’s words: “It is always satisfying to be recognized by your fellow peers, and Walmart adds to this satisfaction by providing additional funds for our classroom teachers.”
Avery Elementary School: Culver’s at Hickory Flat
Culver’s at Hickory Flat provides sweet rewards for Avery Elementary School and its students. The restaurant hosts Family Spirit Nights, provides ice cream coupons for students who participate in the Avery Super Hero Scramble and assists with staff and bus driver recognitions, and team members volunteer their time at the school. In the Principal’s words: “’Willing’ is a wonderful way to describe Mr. Tim Auseth and the relationship he has built with our school.”
Ball Ground Elementary School STEM Academy: Awnex, Inc.
A three-time Partner of the Year, Awnex Inc. continues to positively impact Ball Ground Elementary School STEM Academy. The awnings company hosts field trips for students to learn about STEM careers, and this year, presented the first of what will be an annual community yard sale benefitting the school… another example of how it works with the school to meet needs. In the Principal’s words: “Awnex, Inc. is the finest example of what a partner in education should be.”
Bascomb Elementary School: Chick-fil-A of Towne Lake
Chick-fil-A of Towne Lake is fulfilling the company’s mission to be a positive influence in the community through its partnership with Bascomb Elementary School. From the “Chick-fil-A I can…” program rewarding good character to Spirit Night fundraisers, the restaurant spreads positivity in every endeavor. In the Principal’s words: “We greatly appreciate the positive influence and give-back to our school that we receive from our collaboration and partnership.”
Boston Elementary School: New Victoria Baptist Church
New Victoria Baptist Church’s pastor began the school year by meeting with Boston Elementary School’s Principal and asking what more could the church do for the school. That approach has led to numerous collaborations and the comfort that help is only a phone call away. In the Principal’s words: “I can only imagine the number of times the church is called upon for assistance, however, whenever called upon by Boston, Pastor John Harris and his team delivers.”
Canton Elementary School STEM Academy: Rotary Club of Canton
As a five-time school Partner of the Year, and a past CCSD Partner of the Year, you might think the Rotary Club of Canton was doing all it could for Canton Elementary School STEM Academy. You’d be wrong, as the Club members continued to volunteer, advocate and donate thousands, this year installing an iPad lab. In the Principal’s words: “The Club’s donations bring the world to our doorstep and allow our students to have real-life experiences that they may not otherwise have.”
Carmel Elementary School: The Premier Group Real Estate Firm
The Premier Group Real Estate Firm knows the value strong schools create in a community, and they increase that value by supporting Carmel Elementary School. The company gives volunteer time, incentives and rewards for staff and donations for programs that help students in need. In the Principal’s words: “In addition to their generosity, they are extraordinary for the connections they have made with our staff – they are extremely friendly and supportive.”
Cherokee High School: Shottenkirk Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Canton
Shottenkirk Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Canton’s truck raffle won attention for raising thousands of dollars for Cherokee High School’s football and band programs. But at the same time, the company quietly donated supplies and funds to the automotive department, so students could win state competitions and better prepare for careers. In the Principal’s words: “General Manager David Booth’s involvement in our school is an inspiration to other partners and volunteers.”
Johnston Preschool Center: The Home Depot on Sixes Road
Every spring, flowers and little minds bloom at CCSD’s Johnston Preschool Center thanks to support from The Home Depot on Sixes Road. The store partners with the preschool year-round, through donations and the annual bulb-planting and sprouting lessons. In the Principal’s words: “Without The Home Depot’s help and support throughout the year, we would be giving up many valuable activities that benefit not only our students, but our preschool as a whole.”
Oak Grove Preschool Center: Soleil Charity Committee
As a CCSD Preschool Center, Oak Grove Preschool Center operates without its own PTA, but the Soleil Charity Committee covers that gap. The Committee provides volunteers and donations, which this year helped expand the school playground through the installation of a new fence. In the Principal’s words: “Donations and support from the Soleil Charity Committee are extremely important to the success of our preschool.”
Ralph Bunche Center: Laurel Canyon Optimist Club
The Laurel Canyon Optimist Club brings cheerful volunteers and generous donations to the Ralph Bunche Center preschool in Canton each year. This partnership allows students to build projects on Make & Take Day, participate in field trips and enjoy a larger book selection in the Center’s library. In the Principal’s words: “The Club’s members are wonderful and caring people, who go above and beyond and really care about the children at Ralph Bunche.”
Clark Creek Elementary School STEM Academy: Modern Woodmen of America
As a nonprofit, Modern Woodmen of America donates earnings into the communities it serves, and Clark Creek Elementary School STEM Academy is a grateful recipient. The school has received donations for students and school projects, including a new marquee sign and a project-based learning initiative. In the Principal’s words: “We are so grateful for their willingness to assist us with any projects that we feel will make our school a better place.”
Clayton Elementary School: Help A Child Ministry
Clayton Elementary School is a small school, and its resources don’t cover many extras. Help A Child Ministry now partners with the school to meet the unexpected need, whether it’s a child without school supplies or a family that needs financial assistance at the holidays. In the Principal’s words: “Clayton Elementary School has a true friend and partner in William Weaver and Help A Child Ministry, and we appreciate their presence in our community and school.”
Creekland Middle School: Cherokee Insurance Center
Through Cherokee Insurance Center’s support, Creekland Middle School has recognized outstanding teachers and staff and increased its sense of unity. The company generously donates gift cards for Staff Member of the Month and other awards. In the Principal’s words: “The administration and staff are extremely grateful for the contributions of Jeff Wilbur and Cherokee Insurance Center to make our school a wonderful place to work and learn.”
Creekview High School: Chick-fil-A of Canton
Creekview High School and Chick-fil-A of Canton go together like fried chicken and pickles. For the fifth consecutive year – every year the award has been presented, the restaurant has earned the school’s Partner of the Year title. The school is a perennial favorite for its strong support and sponsorship of school, extra-curricular club and athletic events and willingness to do more every year. In the Principal’s words: “Owner Kevin Williams is always willing to help!”
Dean Rusk Middle School: Reliable Heating and Air
As a large school, Dean Rusk Middle School’s leaders wanted to place a second automatic external defibrillator (AED) on campus to further increase the health and safety of students and staff. Reliable Heating and Air and owners Dan and Daniel Jape stepped in, by awarding the school a $1,900 grant to purchase the second unit. In the Principal’s words: “The knowledge of having the AED to keep hearts beating is a gift that will endure for many years to come.”
E.T. Booth Middle School: The Premier Group Real Estate Firm
Longtime E.T. Booth Middle School partner, The Premier Group Real Estate Firm makes it a practice to reach out to the school regularly to learn about new needs, rather than waiting for a call. And then they give more, whether through providing teacher recognition gifts to serving breakfast at faculty meetings to volunteering at Career Day. In the Principal’s words: “They are very supportive and respectful of the needs of our staff and school.”
Etowah High School: LongHorn Steakhouse of Woodstock
LongHorn Steakhouse of Woodstock is the frequent site of student athlete dinners and special events due to its support of Etowah High School. In addition to offering the teams free or discounted meals, the restaurant participates in school fundraisers and seeks out other opportunities to help. In the Principal’s words: “Dave Zehner and LongHorn really care about the school and the students of the community by always being involved in our activities.”
Free Home Elementary School: Jan Rooney, State Farm Agent
A former teacher, State Farm Agent Jan Rooney is committed to supporting Free Home Elementary School and its students and staff as an outstanding business partner. She serves on the School Council, sponsors student contents, volunteers at school events, surprises staff with treats, and helps the school’s families in need and recruits others for the cause. In the Principal’s words: “Her dedication to serving our school, students, staff and community is unmatched.”
Freedom Middle School: Morrison Products, Inc.
Morrison Products, Inc. makes career education real for Freedom Middle School students. Company leaders make classroom presentations on careers and the engineering process, and then students visit the plant to see the process in action and meet employees at every level. In the Principal’s words: “The employees take time to give back to the school by sharing their knowledge with students and teachers who may have never experienced this type of job opportunity.”
Hasty Elementary School Fine Arts Academy: Canton Police Department
Canton Police Department officers are a regular presence at Hasty Elementary School Fine Arts Academy through a positive partnership to build relationships. Officers teach students about safety and careers, serve as reading buddies and mentors, and make donations for families in need. In the Principal’s words: “Canton Police Officers serve as amazing role models for our students and are committed to fostering relationships with the families in our schools.”
Hickory Flat Elementary School: The Marketplace Canton
When The Marketplace Canton gas station and store opened in Hickory Flat, the owner walked into Hickory Flat Elementary School with a request to serve as a business partner. The store’s Thirsty Thunderbird free refills cup was a fundraising sensation, as has been the free coffee for teachers with an ID badge. In the Principal’s words: “Mickey Stancil is an asset to our School Council and stands ready, willing and able to support in any way possible.”
Holly Springs Elementary School STEM Academy: Corporate Office Furniture & Panels, Inc.
Holly Springs Elementary School STEM Academy is a more comfortable place to teach thanks to the support of Corporate Office Furniture & Panels, Inc. The company has donated furniture for teacher conference, break and rest rooms, and this year, offered every teacher the opportunity to choose a new chair for his or her classroom. In the Principal’s words: “Patrick Locke goes above and beyond in supporting our school, and we appreciate his continued support.”
Indian Knoll Elementary School: MUST Ministries
Through its partnership with MUST Ministries, Indian Knoll Elementary School not only supports the nonprofit’s efforts to serve the needy, but also gains the opportunity for students to learn the value of helping others. Through guest speakers from MUST and the school’s IKES Believes in Helping Others program, students embrace giving and the joy it brings. In the Principal’s words: “We could not have a more dependable and humble partner than MUST Ministries.”
Johnston Elementary School: Modern Woodmen of America
Johnston Elementary School students learn about careers and kindness through the partnership with Modern Woodmen of America. Representative Garth Gherardini’s sponsorship of the third-grade Economic Sale, participation in job fairs and donations of everything from donuts for special parent breakfasts to snacks for students, puts them ahead of the class. In the Principal’s words: “They go over and above what is expected from a partner.”
Knox Elementary School: Kona Ice of Cherokee
A party on wheels arrives every month in the fall and spring at Knox Elementary School thanks to its partnership with Kona Ice of Cherokee. Students love the frozen treat and the colorful musical truck, and benefit from the fundraising, as well as owners’ donations of gifts like a recent delivery of soccer balls for the PE program. In the Principal’s words: “The kids look forward to this treat each month… the students definitely feel like it is a party on wheels.”
Tippens Education Center: Laurel Canyon Optimist Club
After hearing the Principal of Tippens Education Center speak at its meeting, the Laurel Canyon Optimist Club stepped up to help. The Club adopted Tippens, and its donations support programs like the school’s new Training Academy, which features mock businesses where students can learn and practice career skills to prepare for success after graduation. In the Principal’s words: “The students at Tippens will benefit for many years to come due to their partnership.”
Liberty Elementary School: Publix at The Market at BridgeMill
Longtime Liberty Elementary School partner, Publix at The Market at BridgeMill answers the call no matter the need, from grilling burgers and hot dogs at the end-of-the-year celebration to donating cookies for Grandparents Day to providing umbrellas for rainy day car-rider duty. In the Principal’s words: “It is a true pleasure to partner with this fine organization and a complement to our role as a community school focused on kindness and a character-first philosophy.”
Little River Elementary School: Hot Wheels Skating Center
The partnership between Little River Elementary School and Hot Wheels Skating Center is on a roll. The Center hosts successful skate night fundraisers for the school, but also brings its party lights and music to make events at the school more special and donates prizes and incentives for students. In the Principal’s words: “Whitney Finley and the crew from Hot Wheels Skate Center provide over-and-beyond support to our school and PTA.”
Macedonia Elementary School: Smallcakes Cupcakery
Smallcakes Cupcakery may be new to town, but its dedication to supporting Macedonia Elementary School is just the right recipe. The bakery soon after opening signed up to help the school, donating cupcakes for special events like the Daddy-Daughter Dance and to thank teachers at the holidays. In the Principal’s words: “We know we can count on the owners and employees at Smallcakes to make special occasions sweet at Macedonia Elementary School.”
Mill Creek Middle School: Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt at Riverstone Plaza
Mill Creek Middle School students look forward to the tasty treats and the free sprinkles, but the partnership with Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt at Riverstone Plaza offers even sweeter rewards than they know. The company partners with the school on the weekly frozen yogurt fundraiser and supports its Student of the Month program with incentives. In the Principal’s words: “Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt, family owned and operated, puts students first.”
Mountain Road Elementary School: Culver’s at Hickory Flat
Culver’s at Hickory Flat is known for its ButterBurgers and frozen custard, but at Mountain Road Elementary School, it’s also known for being a generous partner. The restaurant’s operator not only serves as a School Council member, he also hosts Spirit Nights and volunteers as a career speaker in classrooms. In the Principal’s words: “Tim Auseth is committed to being a positive voice in the community in support of public schools, and we are thankful for his partnership.”
Oak Grove Elementary School Fine Arts Academy: Modern Woodmen of America
Oak Grove Elementary School Fine Arts Academy knows it can count on Garth Gherardini and Modern Woodmen of America. The partnership encompasses both giving time, through volunteering and serving on the School Council, and giving financially, through donations for projects like the new playground, awarding teacher grants and sponsoring classroom snacks. In the Principal’s words: “He actively looks for ways to help us make Oak Grove a better school for our students.”
R.M. Moore Elementary School: Waleska United Methodist Church
Waleska United Methodist Church is dedicated to serving the community, and R.M. Moore Elementary School often is the grateful beneficiary of that service. The Church already adopted students in need at the holidays, but this year added establishing and stocking a new food pantry at the school and running a weekend back-pack food program to its charitable work. In the Principal’s words: “Pastor Tim Emmett has proven to be an absolute gem to R.M. Moore and to our community.”
River Ridge High School: Chick-fil-A Dwarf House of Woodstock
River Ridge High School’s partnership with two-time Partner of the Year winner Chick-fil-A Dwarf House of Woodstock can be described in one word: family. Since the school’s opening nine years ago, the restaurant has supported it in every way: giving donations, hosting fundraisers, supporting clubs, mentoring students. In the Principal’s words: “The amount of giving makes it difficult to list all of the support and involvement Ron Hammock and his team give to the school.”
Sequoyah High School: Creative Awards and Promotions
Sequoyah High School’s students, clubs and teams earn many awards, but thanks to a partnership with Creative Awards and Promotions, the school can afford to recognize them all in style. The company provides the school with special pricing and provides them with design services for spirit wear. In the Principal’s words: “They are always available to give of their time to work with us to recognize student achievement and success.”
Sixes Elementary School: Hopewell Baptist Church
Hopewell Baptist Church is more than next door to Sixes Elementary School, it’s a good neighbor. The church supports the school by volunteering in the classroom and at special events, providing a staff appreciation meal with entertainment and gifts and by adopting families in need. In the Principal’s words: “Perhaps most importantly, Hopewell has been a continual supporter for many years and always willing to help when needed and holding the school in its prayers.”
Teasley Middle School: Shoal Creek Baptist Church and Shiloh Hills Baptist Church
While neither Scott Bosier of Shoal Creek Baptist Church or Sean Allen of Shiloh Hills Baptist Church have children at Teasley Middle School, they’ve adopted the school as their own. Knowing it has few parent volunteers, they and their churches fill the void by volunteering and securing a breakfast weekly for the 60 to 85 children who attend the school’s Fish Club meetings. In the Principal’s words: “They are both committed, dedicated and dependably present each week.”
Woodstock Elementary School: Woodstock Fire Department
The Woodstock Fire Department is a regular presence at Woodstock Elementary School as it sparks students’ interest in fire safety and other important lessons. Students love to tour the Fire Safety House and see Sparky the fire dog mascot, and teachers love seeing students learn to use a fire extinguisher and dispose of medicine properly. In the Principal’s words: “George Williams’s enthusiasm and unwavering dedication to Woodstock Elementary School is remarkable.”
Woodstock High School: Roytec Industries, LLC
Woodstock High School this year became CCSD’s first State Certified STEM high school, an accomplishment that required strong partners like Roytec Industries LLC. The company makes educating students about engineering careers a priority: speaking to classes, hosting tours, offering internships. In the Principal’s words: “TC Chapman and his team are valuable industry partners providing important real-world learning experiences… they are investing in our students and their local community.”
Woodstock Middle School: Bruster’s Real Ice Cream, Towne Lake
Woodstock Middle School students who achieve academic and attendance honors enjoy a delicious reward thanks to an outstanding partner. Bruster’s Real Ice Cream of Towne Lake provides a free ice cream party, with all the toppings, to these top students once a semester, and the shop’s crew stays to do all the serving so the school staff can stay focused on its own roles. In the Principal’s words: “Bruster’s Real Ice Cream is a reliable partner with our school.”