Organizers encourage others to contribute

Chris and Donna Lawrence’s almost-accidental adoption plan for Andalusia Elementary teachers last year was so successful, even Ronald McDonald is on board for the program this year.

And the Lawrences are looking for others to help support local teachers.

Donna Lawrence said she and her husband have traditionally contributed supply money each year to their grandson’s teacher.

“Last year, we decided to help the whole class,” she said. Word got around, and with a little effort, she managed to get contributions for the supply accounts of almost all AES teachers.

“We’re not asking for a certain amount,” she said. “We’ve had some people adopt a whole grade level, and others adopt a single class.”

On Friday, Ronald McDonald visited AES to make a contribution to the music and art program and physical education on behalf of Murphy Management, owner of the Andalusia McDonald’s and 15 other Wiregrass locations.

Murphy Management joins a number of local businesses and individuals who have adopted classes or programs at AES, including Lori and Rhett Enzor of Tropical Smoothie and Little Ceasar’s; Todd and Anna Pate of Covington Heavy Duty; A&A Welding Supply; Jeffery Douglas of Mr. Mattress; Hunter Owen of Andalusia Ford; Chris and Donna Lawrence of Christopher’s Diamonds and Fine Jewelry; Lisa and Jim Locklier; and a number of anonymous donors.

Lawrence is still seeking “adopters” of the school’s Pre-K classes; collaborative classes; speech program; and gifted program.

“We are not asking for a certain amount,” she said. “We’ve had more than two people who have given to P.E. and some who have given to kindergarten.”

She’s also been contacted by people in Brantley, Enterprise and Luverne who want to duplicate what she’s done in schools there.

State ethics laws require that the checks be made to the school system, but donors may designate the classroom or program recipient.

For additional information, contact Lawrence at Christopher’s, 334.222.4925.