This fall, Target announced Becker Elementary as one of 100 schools across the country that will receive a $25,000 grant through the company’s “Give with Target” initiative.
“We are humbled and encouraged by the support that our district's leaders and the Target corporation are providing to our campus as we work toward our goal of providing academic programming that addresses the needs of the whole child,” Principal LaKesha Drinks said. “It's not everyday that a major corporation recognizes the work of educators, so we appreciate Target for making such a generous gesture of support."
The funds will enable the school to update technology that will enhance classroom instruction. Each classroom will be provided with at least one iPad and will receive a library refresh with resources to facilitate cooperative learning in bilingual pairs.
The giving campaign is part of Target’s goal to provide $2.5 million in grants to 100 in-need schools across the country.
Becker, which has been experiencing increased enrollment numbers in recent years, can use supplemental funding at the campus level to expand its student enrichment programs—such as dual language and weekly green classroom gardening projects—to be able to serve its growing population.
Representatives from Target will be stopping by Becker during the school’s parent night on Thursday, Sept. 13, for a check signing ceremony and to meet with Principal Drinks.
“This is something that we are extremely proud of,” Drinks said. “The increase in enrollment and being recognized by Target are testaments as to how hard work and dedication yield great reward.”