MITCHELL COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) — Georgia’s Own Credit Union surprised teachers at Mitchell County Elementary School Thursday, July 30, with free school supplies.

The credit union donated $3,000 worth of school supplies, such as Clorox wipes, post-it notes, snacks and more for teachers to pick out.

As school supplies continue to increase every year, it becomes a challenge for teachers to buy the necessary products for their classrooms.

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According to a recent study by the National Educators Association, teachers are expected to spend an average of around $900 of their own money on supplies this school year.

For Title 1 schools such as Mitchell County Elementary that receive additional resources and funding from the government, assistance from the credit union is crucial.

Christopher Drakes is a Math Coach at the school. According to him, receiving help from the community not only helps the teachers, but ultimately, the students and their success.

“When somebody outside of the community comes in and bless us, not only is it blessing the teachers, but you’re also looking out for our students and our community as well,” said Drakes.

He described the surprise like “Christmas in July.” He and other teachers were elated when they saw the surprise.

“I was excited. I had a bag full from hand sanitizers to pencils to markers. And you should see the excitement on teachers’ faces,” said Drakes. “It’s like Christmas in July.”

For the last three years, Georgia’s Own Credit Union has donated school supplies to Mitchell Elementary. Every year, teachers look forward to receiving support from their community.

Dr. Darius Peterson is in his first year as principal. Although his journey is just beginning, seeing his staff be taken care of brings him joy.

For me, ensuring that our educators are adequately supported is primary. And one of the things that makes me happy is when our teachers are happy," said Peterson.

As Mitchell County takes on a new school year, the help they receive ensures that they are able to continue embodying their motto— “Committed to excellence.”

“To know that our educators are supported both internally and externally, it makes a difference and helps us to remain committed to excellence,” said Peterson.

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