A joint effort between DonorsChoose.org, a nonprofit started by a former teacher, and PNC Foundation, associated with the financial services company, will pay for teaching or project materials for 32 Pre-K classes in Georgia public schools, including charters. It’s part of a $5 million grant and funding drive across 22 states and Washington, D.C.
The money came from donors and matching gifts from PNC Foundation, which provided 14,500 PNC employees with electronic gift cards that enabled the employees to select a classroom project to give to.
The metro Atlanta projects that got money range from $1,645 for a technology program in Atlanta’s Fred A. Toomer Elementary School to $479 for learning toys for special-needs students in Gwinnett County’s Ferguson Elementary.
A recent study conducted by the National Head Start Association showed that 94 percent of teachers say they need more resources to enrich the classroom, but 84 percent say they are unable to fund experiences they want to provide.
The study also noted that 93 percent of those queried either considered buying or bought classroom supplies out of their own pockets; 88 percent reported spending up to $500.
“We’re thrilled to be a part of PNC’s longstanding commitment to early childhood learning,” said Charles Best, DonorsChoose.org founder. He started the nonprofit after his experience as a teacher who struggled to find money for materials and supplies for students. At DonorsChoose.org, teachers can list projects or supplies, and the public can make donations to fund them.
Teacher requests for educational resources range from books to art supplies, science equipment, field trips and more. Frequent requests include technology and visits from specialized educators.
The PNC Foundation focuses its philanthropic mission on early childhood education and community and economic development, which includes the arts and culture.
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