A group of community organizations have come together to rally public support for our schools at a time when the need has never been greater. On January 11, a special leader program called “The Power of One” will be hosted by Mecklenburg Ministries, Temple Beth El, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools and Communities in Schools, and is intended to encourage individual citizens and organizations that their time, resources and advocacy can make a difference in our high poverty schools in Charlotte.
“Quality public education is in the best interest of every citizen in this community,” said Dr. Maria Hanlin, Executive Director of Mecklenburg Ministries. “Our hope is that we can open Charlotte’s eyes to the state of our public schools and encourage everyone—businesses, faith community and general public—to step up and get involved.”
The event will feature the Souls of Our Teachers documentary, insight from CMS Superintendent, Dr. Peter Gorman, and an inspirational panel of local teachers from CMS’ most challenged schools. The film, which premiered last May, examines the first-hand experiences of our public school system through the eyes of the teachers.
“The Power of One” will be held at the Bechtler Museum, Tuesday, January 11, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Representatives from local businesses, community organizations and congregations are encouraged to register for the event, which is sponsored by John S. and James L. Knight Foundation, The Leon Levine Foundation and Wachovia, a Wells Fargo Company.
All attendees will receive a complimentary copy of the film and a Facilitator’s Guide to bring the dialogue about Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools back to their organizations, as well as a $100 DonorsChoose gift card to support a project in a high need school in our community. Box lunches will also be provided to all who attend.
RSVP is necessary; to register visit www.meckmin.org.
