Special to IFN
In a powerful display of community solidarity, local churches and numerous community members have joined forces to support students at N.B. Mills Elementary School, a Title I school in Statesville.
Speak Life and Live, a local organization dedicated to advocating for marginalized communities, recently spreaheaded an effort to raise money to pay technology fees for students in need. This initiative underscores the growing importance of community partners in creating meaningful change for Statesville students, particularly those facing socioeconomic challenges.
With the ever-evolving demands of education and a heavier reliance on technology, many students at N.B. Mills Elementary found themselves struggling to keep up due to the high costs of required technological fees. Speak Life and Live recognized the urgent need and mobilized local faith-based organizations and community members to answer the call.
“This fundraiser represents more than just covering technology fees; it’s about investing in our future leaders,” said a representative from Speak Life and Live. “Without access to these critical tools, students fall behind academically, and in today’s educational climate, that gap can have lasting effects.”
The educational landscape has shifted drastically over the past few years with technology becoming an essential part of learning. In schools like N.B. Mills Elementary, where many families already struggle to cover basic necessities, these added costs can be a significant burden.
This fundraiser demonstrates that when communities unite, they can bridge gaps and provide students with the resources they need to thrive.
In addition to acknowledging the contributions from local churches (First Church, Horizon Church, Grace Baptist, Forward Church, First Resurrection Church, FreeWill Family Worship Center, Freedom Presbyterian Church, New Shiloh Baptist Church (Baltimore MD), Clarks Chapel) and generous donations from a host of community members, Speak Life and Live expressed a special thanks to Iredell-Statesville Schools Superintendent Jeff James.
“We are grateful for the superintendent’s leadership and for giving us the opportunity to truly invest in the next generation. It’s through partnerships like these that real change is possible.”
In today’s challenging educational climate, where funding is often scarce, and schools are expected to do more with less, partnerships like these are vital. It will take all of us — parents, educators, businesses, faith communities, and individual citizens — working together to create change and ensure every child has the opportunity to excel.
As students at NB Mills Elementary prepare for the academic year ahead, they will do so knowing their community stands behind them, ensuring that no financial barriers will prevent them from reaching their full potential. The success of this fundraiser proves that when we unite, we can make a difference — one student at a time.