Making Miracles Happen

In a year where every penny counts and enrollment remains a challenge for independent schools across the nation, I am pleased to share that your contributions to the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program have allowed us to enroll three new students this year. These students have already made significant contributions to life at Darlington, and we are so proud to have them here. You should be proud, too, because it was our parents, trustees, alumni, faculty and friends who made it possible.

So far, the members of our school family have committed a total of $47,000 through the GOAL initiative, which greatly impacts our ability to offer a larger amount of financial assistance to qualified applicants who come to us from public schools. Once funding is received, we can make immediate financial aid awards, thus making a difference in the lives of students who are perfect candidates for admission to Darlington, but do not have the financial means necessary to afford full tuition. Simply put, together we are making miracles happen.

If you have not already read about GOAL, I urge you to visit the link on our homepage. Anyone who lives in the state of Georgia or pays Georgia state taxes is eligible to participate, and we hope you will do so. This initiative provides a great opportunity for you to help students by redirecting a portion of your tax payment and taking a credit in return. It’s truly a win-win. However, the Nov. 1 deadline to participate is approaching quickly, so please let us know if you have any questions or need further information.

On another note, our Middle and Upper School directors are arranging for President Barack Obama’s national address to the students of America to be shown in central locations next Tuesday so that students in grades 5-12 may have the option of viewing it if they choose to do so. Please know that this is completely optional, and students who do not wish to participate will not be penalized. This isn’t about politics; it’s about kids hearing and learning from the president of our country, and I believe school is one of the safest environments for this to happen. According to the U.S. Department of Education, the president will challenge students to work hard, set educational goals and take responsibility for their learning.

In closing, I hope all of you enjoy a safe and restful long weekend with your families!

Tom