Adopt-A-School Program Reaches Milestone Year

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Tuscaloosa, AL - Since its inception in 1985, the Adopt-A-School program has been a cornerstone of collaboration between businesses and schools within public school systems across Tuscaloosa County and, in recent years, West Alabama. Spearheaded by The Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, in partnership with Tuscaloosa City Schools and the Tuscaloosa County School System, the initiative has fostered  interactions between the business community and public schools, enriching educational experiences for students across the region.

This year, Feb. 24 marks the start of Adopt-A-School Week, a dedicated period to express appreciation for all partners and showcase the projects and activities made possible through the program.

“At Alabama Power, we believe in the transformative power of education and the profound impact it has on our communities,” said Alabama Power Western Division Vice President Jill Stork. “Participating in the Adopt-A-School program has allowed us to partner with four different schools over the years, fostering long-term relationships and witnessing the incredible changes that occur when industry collaborates with education.”

Stork added, “This partnership has been instrumental in enhancing resources, improving facilities and creating enriched learning opportunities. Workforce development is a key priority for us, and by investing in our schools, we are investing in the future of our community.”

The four charter businesses that joined the program in 1985 and remain involved today are BF Goodrich, Northport Medical Center, Shelton State Community College, and Phifer Inc.

Phifer Inc. was the first business to adopt a school, Westlawn Middle School, and continues its partnership with the same school today.

“It has been an honor and a privilege for Phifer Inc. to be part of the Adopt-A-School program from the very start,” said Phifer Inc. Vice President and Treasurer Karen P. Brooks. “We joined without hesitation, knowing it would be a great opportunity to help develop young students into potential future employees, not only for us, but for all of West Alabama.”

“We could not have asked for a better partnership with Westlawn Middle School, and we all owe the Chamber for starting this amazing program. It’s no wonder the Chamber’s Adopt-A-School program is recognized as the very best in the nation,” Brooks added.

Adopt-A-School partnerships serve as a conduit for companies and their employees to invest their time, talents and resources directly into schools, igniting initiatives that inspire and enhance the educational journey of students. Since 1992, reports from these partnerships reveal an astounding impact: more than 41,066 volunteers have dedicated over 256,889 hours to schools, with partnerships contributing $10.1 million in direct financial support, in-kind contributions and volunteer hours combined.

“For 40 years, the business community has played a vital role in supporting our schools. I am deeply grateful for their investment, which continues to empower students and help prepare them for success in the workforce,” said Carolyn Tubbs, the Chamber’s Director of Education Programs.

Adopt-A-School Week provides a moment for the community to extend appreciation to all Adopt-A-School partners for their commitment to schools and public-school systems. To explore the list of adopters, visit westalabamachamber.com/aas/adopters.

“To businesses considering joining the Adopt-A-School program, I would say this: It’s one of the most rewarding investments you can make in your community,” said Shannon Chandler, Director of Development at Shelton State Community College. “By becoming an adopter, you're not just supporting a school—you’re shaping the future.”

Chandler added, “If you’re looking for a meaningful way to give back and leave a legacy, the Adopt-A-School program is a perfect opportunity to make a difference.”

For more information about Adopt-A-School and how your business or organization can support a public school in West Alabama, contact Carolyn Tubbs at carolyn@westalabamachamber.com.