R. Grant Graham Elementary students get surprise visit from local leaders

Some Avondale students got a lesson in Civics and community service when State Senator James Marleau and State Representative Michael Webber visited their school this week. The visit to R. Grant Graham Elementary was part of the Tools for Learning campaign organized by the AT&T Pioneers, a group of current and retired AT&T employees who volunteer their personal time to enhance the communities where they work and live. Through the generosity of the Pioneers, students also received new backpacks and school supplies during the legislators’ visit.

Lori Doughty, AT&T Regional Director of External Affairs coordinated the event, one of many community-based initiatives for the Pioneers. “The Pioneers is a group committed to advancing education, strengthening communities and improving lives. They have a long history of investing in projects that create learning opportunities and promote academic achievement.”

Senator Marleau spoke briefly to the students about his job and the importance of community service. He also congratulated the students on a strong start to the school year and encouraged them to continue their hard work. Representative Webber said he hopes each of the students has a successful school year and that he appreciates the support of AT&T in providing the school supplies. “This project sends a good message to the students - that people care how they do in school - that their community wants them to do well.”

In addition to education-based projects including the Tools for Learning campaign and their Aspire Mentoring Academy, the AT&T Pioneers support initiatives like Dish it Up: Feeding Families Healthy Food, American Red Cross Blood Drives, Cell Phones for Soldiers and Sleeping Mats for the Homeless with a reach that extends around the country. In speaking about the Tools for Learning campaign, Jim Murray, president of AT&T Michigan said that AT&T is “proud to support students” and “excited to play this role in the education of tomorrow’s leaders.”

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