Earnhardt Family Races To Help Allenbrook Elementary

Press release from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools:

10/2/2020

Allenbrook Elementary staff received a visit Wednesday from NASCAR legend Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his wife, Amy. Earnhardt had been in contact with Principal Kimberly Vaught since July about ways they could help the school, but she didn't expect to meet the couple in person or to receive a $135,000 check.

"We had no idea they were coming or that they would be helping us in such a big way," Vaught said. "This extraordinary donation and show of support confirms that we are primed and poised to make a difference and bring powerful change to such a deserving and worthy school community and community at large."

Vaught had received an email from Earnhardt's sister Kelley only a week after she joined Allenbrook on July 1. The Earnhardts wanted to give back to the local community, and Earnhardt selected Allenbrook after researching local schools on his own. Conversations followed about how the Earnhardts could meet the school's needs. Vaught said she and her staff never knew a dollar amount and were thinking on a smaller scale, but Earnhardt wanted them to dream bigger.

"We are inspired by the work that Principal Vaught and her team are doing with the students and the community, and we are excited to be a small part of the change that is coming to Allenbrook," Earnhardt said. "We support the mission and vision of the school, and we are blessed to be able to provide support for the students, staff and the community."

The Earnhardts' support is instrumental for Allenbrook, a Title I school that is in transition. Vaught said they are starting from scratch to relaunch the school with new colors, a new mascot and a new motto, along with a new narrative to inspire students and families. Vaught said the couple walked through the school, and they discussed ideas for transforming the school's garden, as well as plans to redo the front entrance and enhance the curb appeal.

"We are grateful to Mr. Earnhardt, his wife, Amy, and the entire Dale Jr. Foundation for their strong show of support as we rebrand, relaunch and reestablish our school community," Vaught said. "This $135,000 is seed money that our school leadership and community will use to rebuild on a solid foundation and make a positive impact on the trajectories of our students and community for years to come."

This press release was produced by the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools. The views expressed are the author's own.