Adopt-A-School Week 2024: Celebrating 39 Years of Business-School Collaboration in Tuscaloosa
February 26, 2024
Since its inception in 1985, the Adopt-A-School program has stood as a cornerstone of collaboration between businesses and schools within public school systems in Tuscaloosa city and county. Spearheaded by the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, in partnership with the Tuscaloosa City School System and the Tuscaloosa County School System, this initiative has fostered a dynamic interaction between the business community and public schools, enriching educational experiences for students across the region. In recent years, Adopt-A-School has expanded to include 13 schools across Bibb, Fayette, Greene, Hale, Marengo, and Pickens counties.
This year, from February 26 to March 1, the Adopt-A-School program announces "Adopt-A-School Week," a dedicated period to express appreciation to all partners and showcase the myriad of projects and activities made possible through this invaluable program.
“Phifer Incorporated is honored to be able to give back to our community and schools through our participation in the Adopt-A-School program,” said Madge Moore of Phifer Incorporated. “As a charter member of the program in 1985, the partnership between Phifer and Westlawn Middle School continues to grow every year. By investing time and resources into the students, businesses are not only improving our local schools but also all the communities we serve. We look forward to many more years of supporting the Adopt-A-School program.”
Adopt-A-School partnerships serve as a conduit for companies and their employees to invest their time, talents, and resources directly into schools, igniting initiatives that inspire and enhance the educational journey of students. Since 1992, reports from these partnerships reveal an astounding impact: over 39,930 volunteers have dedicated more than 252,613.25 hours to schools, with partnerships contributing a staggering $9.7 million in direct financial support, in-kind contributions, and volunteer hours combined.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the business community for their essential investments in our schools. Your support is shaping a bright future for our students, preparing them for success in the workforce,” said Carolyn Tubbs, director of education programs at the Chamber.
Adopt-A-School Week provides a moment for the community to extend heartfelt appreciation to all Adopt-A-School partners for their unwavering commitment to our schools and public-school systems. To explore the extensive list of adopters, visit www.westalabamachamber.com/adopt-a-school/.
“Adopt A School week is the perfect time to be reminded about how important our local schools are for our community,” said Shane Spiller of Spiller Furniture. “We truly enjoy being involved in a program that helps to encourage our teachers and students. So, get involved with Adopt A School; you will not regret it.”
For more information about Adopt-A-School, and how your business or organization can support a public school in West Alabama, click here.