The Ron Clark Academy Salutes Sponsors at Donor Appreciation Day

The Ron Clark Academy (RCA) welcomed several special guests to its annual Donor Appreciation Day event on Wednesday, February 23, 2011.  The celebration took place at the Academy, and all supporters were welcomed with bright smiles and hugs of gratitude by the students of RCA.

The event kicked off in founder Ron Clark’s classroom, where supporters had a chance to see how their donations have made a difference in the lives of students.  Clark’s room is equipped with the latest technology, including a Promethean interactive whiteboard, which brings images and sound to the classroom coupled with Active Expressions, which are student response devices.  The audience was captivated as students sang and danced to Problems Up, a song composed by Clark to engage students in mathematics. 

Later the program continued in executive director and co-founder Kim Bearden’s classroom when students shared their personal stories of how each supporter had changed their lives and others’ at the Academy.  For example, a sixth grader was surprised during the school year with an Xtreme Room Makeover Competition, where sponsors renovated deserving students’ bedrooms.  Board member Jeff Mixson was one of the families that participated in the competition and had decided to surprise the unsuspecting student with a new room. 

Mixson, like many of the supporters of RCA, is committed to giving back and making a difference beyond the classroom.  Those companies that were recognized for their support were Delta, Coca-Cola, InterContinental Hotel Group, Comcast, NewellRubermaid, Calloway Foundation, Promethean, School Box, NAIOP and Atlanta CEO Council. 

Members of the RCA Board of Directors were also recognized for their hard work, commitment and support of the Academy. Sunny Burrows was awarded a special plaque that honored her work as board member and development chair.  Additionally, board members who were also recognized and in attendance included Alonzo Llorens, Steve Beecham, Jeff Mixson, Scott Selig, and Mindy Jones.

Clark and Bearden thanked all performers and the attendees.  The event concluded with a reception allowing staff, students and supporters to discuss their experiences and memorable moments at RCA. 

“Our supporters are amazing people, who continually give tirelessly to the students of the Ron Clark Academy,” said Bearden.  We are so grateful for the difference they have made in our lives. The Academy wouldn’t have been possible without their support and commitment. We love them and appreciate their warm hearts and unyielding support.”