BE THE CHANGE
On Wednesday, June 3rd, TEAM Charter Schools held its third annual Be the Change Celebration at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. More than 450 supporters, parents, board members, teachers, students, family and friends filled the Victoria Theatre and enjoyed an evening which alternated between poignant student performances and the recognition of the event’s three honorees: Doris and Donald Fisher, Josh Weston and Councilman Ron Rice. Each of the honorees has both played a critical role in TEAM’s success and helped create a strong foundation for our continued growth. We are thrilled to have had the chance to recognize these individuals’ great impact and efforts.
Opening with a performance by TEAM Academy’s drumline and step team, TEAM premiered it’s new promotional video. Rise School Leader Drew Martin followed to set the tone for the night with a powerful speech outlining the historical injustices of educational disparities for low-income students, and the promise TEAM Charter Schools represent as students set a new and high bar and prove to the world what is possible. Guests were deeply moved by the personal stories of our speakers: TEAM Academy alumna Kinyette Henderson and Rise Academy 7th grade student Zahnik Underdue. The program closed with a rousing performance of “Jet Song” from West Side Story by the TEAM Academy drama club. The overall evening concluded with dinner and a performance by the of Newark Collegiate Choral Group.
THANK YOU SO MUCH to those who supported the Be the Change Celebration! We are delighted to announce that, due to the extraordinary generosity of the attendees, we raised over $530,000 from the night! These funds will ensure TEAM’s expansion with its first elementary school, SPARK Academy, opening next year and for many years to come.