Students at Atlanta’s Sarah Smith Elementary School raised thousands of dollars to support environmental and literacy programs in South Africa.

The fund-raising was part of a week-long immersion in South African history, culture and geography last month, culminating in a day-long celebration including dancing, learning how to box like Nelson Mandela, face-painting and mining for gold.

The program, one component of a year-long global education effort, was funded by the school’s PTA and foundation.

“It really is an exceptional program that is 100-percent parent driven,” PTA communications chair Kimberley Simms wrote. “It is such a rich cultural experience for them and a wonderful education that opens their eyes and hearts to other countries around the globe.”

Keep Reading

Board members listen during an Atlanta School Board meeting in Atlanta on Wednesday, November 5, 2025. APS held its first vote on school consolidation plans. (Abbey Cutrer / AJC)

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com

Featured

Prosecutor Skandalakis has previously suggested that pursuing criminal charges against President Donald Trump may not be feasible until after he leaves office in 2029. (Craig Hudson/Politico/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Credit: Bloomberg via Getty Images