A Gwinnett County public school has been awarded $10,000 through the McDonald’s Golden Grants Program. Gwin Oaks Elementary School will use the funds to invest in its English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) students through Pocketalk translators and other advanced technology. These tools will foster an inclusive learning environment that ensures students are given the tools they need to succeed.

     “We are incredibly grateful to McDonald’s for their generosity and commitment to our students,” says Deena Pagan, ESOL teacher at Gwin Oaks Elementary School. “This grant enables us to provide essential resources to bridge communication gaps and support a more inclusive learning experience. I am eager to see how these tools will transform our students’ educational journey and strengthen our school community.”

     Twelve organizations received grants this year, including Bay Creek Middle School and White Oak Elementary School, which both received $1,000 grants for school improvements. Established in 2018, the Atlanta-exclusive Golden Grants program awards one $20,000 grant, one $10,000 grant, and ten $1,000 grants. To qualify for the grants, organizations must focus on education initiatives that support and benefit students in grades K-12. These activities include, but are not limited to, homelessness support, supply needs, technology programs, and mentorship programs.