Broward School Receives Oprah Inspired Makeover
FT. LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami) - A deserving Ft. Lauderdale elementary school got a much needed makeover to its library in honor of Oprah Winfrey.
Earlier this year, The Heart of American Foundation teamed up with Target and told school officials at Lauderdale Manors Elementary School that they would be making over 42 elementary school libraries in honor of Oprah's 25 years of service and inspiration.
On Friday, they made good on that promise.
The school's Media Center was made over with eco-friendly design elements, new furniture, carpet and shelves. The school also received a complete technology upgrade including iPads donated by Target and a mounted interactive whiteboard with a mounted projection device and a set of student response system donated by Promethean.
"It feels like a new school here," gushed third grader Shanice Walker.
When asked what she loves about books, fourth grader Jattah Cleave said without hesitation, "they take you to new paths."
As part of the unveiling festivities, each student and his or her siblings will receive seven new books to add to their own home collections. The school center also received 2,000 new books for its library collection.
"We really believe these children need these resources in order to succeed and make a difference," said Angie Halamandaris of Heart of America.
During the next school year, families will also be receiving 30-35 pounds of food each month through the Target Meals for Minds program.
Principal Donna McCann is also hoping to renovate an old storage room in the library, making it into a parent's resource center.
"It shows these kids they are worth something and if they stick to it they will accomplish their goals," said McCann. "Just like we did here."
