Tanger Outlets Charleston recently presented three Charleston County School District (CCSD) school-based programs with TangerKids grants. Chicora Elementary School’s Tools for Talent Development, Sullivan’s Island Elementary School’s Social/Emotional Learning Center, and Harbor View Elementary School’s Courtyard and Garden Beautification Shade Project are all 2022 recipients.
In addition, for the first time, TangerClub members were invited to vote on the winning projects in a nationwide Member Choice poll this year. Through this new program update, the CCSD Gifted and Talented program at Chicora, Matilda F. Dunston Elementary, and Charleston Progressive Academy, led by Gifted and Talented teacher Rachel Adams finished in the top five and received an additional $1,000. The program highlights the district’s initiative to increase critical reasoning opportunities for students who demonstrate significant academic potential but are frequently under-represented by traditional gifted identification measures.
"Being awarded the TangerKids grant means the students I serve will have access to tools which will support development of their reasoning and critical thinking skills,” explained Adams. "These talents are an important component of the profile of a Gifted and Talented student in CCSD. I am grateful for this funding and to be able to offer access to learning opportunities that will stretch the thinking and talents of those students I serve."
Chicora Principal Monica Smalls added that the resources would expand access and foster student growth.
“Our Chicora family is delighted to receive the $2,500 grant from Tanger Outlets,” said Smalls. “With a focus on academic accomplishment, social development, and future success, the Gifted and Talented Program empowers children to realize their full potential. Our children will access resources that will help them develop their strengths and talents in critical thinking and reasoning skills as more pupils get the chance to receive enrichment. We at Chicora are delighted that our children are being acknowledged and given this fantastic opportunity.”
Tanger Outlets funded $160,000 in classroom investments across the country through the TangerKids Grants program. More than half of grant funding is allocated to teacher-led initiatives designed to support more inclusive classroom environments for underserved schools and student populations.
The annual program is open to public and private schools. This year’s winners were chosen from numerous applicants within the Charleston (tri-county) area.
“Creating opportunity for all is a top priority at Tanger,” said Tanger Outlets Marketing Director Andrea Gervacio. “It’s humbling to see the impact of these grants, which were requested directly by Charleston area teachers for projects that enhance learning environments and support students’ success both in and out of the classroom.”
Tanger Charleston team members visited Chicora, Sullivan’s Island, and Harbor View to present winners with a check and celebrate the schools’ educators and students on September 14, 2022.
To learn more about TangerKids Grants, please visit grants.tangeroutlets.com. For additional information about the programs in CCSD schools, contact the Communications Office (843) 937-6303.
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