WASHINGTON — More than $15,000 in classroom items were gifted to teachers and aides at D.C.'s Moten Elementary School in Ward 8 Monday. The surprise was made possible by Washington Mystics guard Ariel Atkins and the Lids Foundation, along with the DC State Board of Education.
“Our goal is to show gratitude to teachers and their aides by providing them with essential classroom items that could enhance their classroom environment, as well as the student’s experience. We want them to feel appreciated and valued for the undeniable impact they make every day on their students,” Atkins said.
This is the second year Atkins has partnered with the Lids Foundation for the surprise teacher-appreciation event.
The Lids Foundation purchased the gifted items in full based on wish lists that teachers completed at the veiled request of Moten Elementary principal Akela Dogbe. This year, items included general school supplies; classroom décor, like beanbag chairs, twinkle lights and interactive rugs; Lids store gift cards for student prizes; and Visa gift cards for teachers and aides to treat themselves to something personal.
“Teachers have a direct impact on children that has the power to change their lives,” said Sarah Lim, executive director of the Lids Foundation. “Making sure that they have all the supplies that they need so they can focus on their students is one way to make sure nothing gets in the way of the full impact they can make. So, this year, it was easy to continue our partnership with Ariel Atkins and host another Teacher Appreciation Day, gifting teachers with a year’s worth of supplies and gifts.”
Atkins made a surprise appearance at a school-wide assembly along with head coach Eric Thibault and teammates Stephanie Dolson, Brittney Sykes and Julie Vanloo to handout the supplies.
“We really need these supplies, to be honest with you,” said Cecil Thronton, a pre-K teacher at the school. "Most times we have to get things on our own, so it's good when someone comes in and helps us. All that has been given today, I really needed. We really appreciate what you all have done.”
