DonorsChoose.org is an online nonprofit platform that allows individuals to donate directly to public school classroom projects.
The school was recently converted from an elementary school into a middle school, so limited band resources were available for Lavignette’s students.
“So many of our days in band class consisted of learning the systems and patterns of music. We would discuss the instruments, but it is hard for students to keep interest in band class when they do not have an instrument in their hands to express themselves,” said Lavignette.
Teresa Muse, Pattillo’s Media Coordinator, and Lauren Lampron, Principal, suggested the DonorsChoose.org program to Lavignette and assisted him with setting up his Donors Choose page.
“The donations began to trickle in from all over the place. However, the contributions started to slow down and eventually stop. Luckily, a spark was ignited when the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation offered to double all donations during the last month,” said Lavignette.
“Soon we had the project fully funded and Pattillo now has our first set of school instruments for students to use,” he added.
Items received include trombones, flutes, clarinets and trumpets.
“We offer our greatest thanks and gratitude to all who donated. You have touched the lives of many young people. We hope to continue to gain support as we turn this music program into a shining star,” said Lavignette.