Thames Elementary School partners with Chad, Ron, and Michelle Williams and the McDonald’s Corp. to improve student behavior and academic achievement. Specifically, student behavior that fosters both academic excellence and integrity. This partnership began in 2017 after conversations between school staff and Michelle Williams, Co-owner of McDonald’s located in Hattiesburg, MS. Michelle Williams chose to begin the partnership with a “Back to School” backpack drive which took place at another community member’s business. This backpack drive collected 100s of backpacks as well as school supplies from customers at the business. When the school leadership team met with Mrs. Williams and other business leaders, they were asked to identify all school needs. By means of the yearly needs assessment, the group determined a need for positive behavior supports as well academic achievement.

Due to the pandemic, many students are learning virtually. The team had to be creative when providing incentives for positive behavior for those virtual students. In an effort to address academic achievement, the team decided to begin by providing student backpacks as well as school supplies. The hope was that no child would be lacking a backpack or school supplies. Currently, 30-40 volunteers a year participate in the collection and organization of backpacks and school supplies. The volunteers work with the leadership to provide on-going support for purchasing student backpacks and supplies.

Incentives such as “Happy Meal” coupons were distributed to honor roll students with the goal of improving student achievement. These coupons were also distributed to virtual students who exhibit positive behavior. On a monthly basis, virtual students receive via mail, their coupons. The benefits of this school-based partnership for students include improving academic outcomes as well as promoting positive student behavior while exposing students to community resources. This partnership has created a more positive atmosphere at the school as well as assisted in building relationships between the school and the community. The outcomes produced through this partnership define the meaning of “every community behind every child”.

Community Partners:
Ron, Michelle, and Chad Williams, McDonald's Corporation