When it comes to the first week of school, it doesn't get much more exciting than a visit from an NFL football team, their mascot and cheerleaders, and a gigantic pep rally at your school to celebrate! The Carolina Panthers kicked off the first week of school with a bang at Tyger River Elementary School, hosting a high-energy, encouragement pep rally in front of more than 300 students, teachers and staff. "What better way to kick off school than with the Carolina Panthers," said Principal Shayne Daugherty.
The rally was part of a broader backpack and school supplies distribution benefitting 25,000 students in high-need communities across four school districts in the Carolinas. In Spartanburg District Five alone, the Panthers organization donated 5,000 backpacks full of school supplies, that were put directly in the hands of elementary students here. The distribution program is funded through a partnership between Carolina Panthers Charities, The David and Nicole Tepper Foundation, and the John M. Belk Endowment. Classroom Central is helping coordinate the multi-school distribution.
“Providing students with the essential tools they need for success in the classroom is critical for their confidence and development,” said Panthers Director of Community Relations Riley Fields. “A well-equipped student is better prepared to be fully engaged in the classroom. We are proud to team up with our community partners to support students in our region for a successful start to their school year.”