Sawyer Road celebrates $50,000 media center makeover

MARIETTA, GA—As anticipation grows for the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, Sawyer Road Elementary was chosen by the College Football Playoff (CFP) Foundation’s Extra Yard for Teachers initiative to receive a transformative $50,000 media center makeover. This will propel Marietta City Schools (MCS) toward new horizons of educational excellence and student success.

During a special visit on Wednesday, December 18, Sawyer Road Elementary students explored their newly transformed learning area. Setting the stage for a celebration, the school’s choir performed a festive holiday melody before MCS staff, CFP Foundation representatives, and Peach Bowl officials cut the ceremonial ribbon. Students poured into the revitalized space, eager to discover their updated media center, and hung out with Peach Bowl Mascot, Huddles.

“This significant contribution from the CFP Foundation elevates our shared mission to put children first,” said Principal Susan Graves. “We know that our students will thrive academically, socially, and emotionally when educators have the support and resources they need. The redesigned media center demonstrates what can happen when committed partners unite around a common goal—unlocking the potential of every learner.” 

As one of MCS’s largest elementary campuses, Sawyer Road Elementary serves nearly 550 students from diverse backgrounds, including many who qualify for free or reduced-price meals and are dual language learners. By working with School Specialty, the CFP Foundation has created a vibrant and inclusive media hub that provides teachers with the flexible tools, resources, and technology they need to inspire discovery, creativity, and collaboration.

At the heart of this effort is the Extra Yard for Teachers initiative, the CFP Foundation’s signature philanthropic program. By focusing on improving teacher resources, recognition, and professional development, the CFP Foundation invests directly in the educators who make excellence possible in classrooms nationwide. 

“Through our ‘Extra Yard for Teachers’ initiative, we aim to empower teachers with the tools they need to inspire young minds,” said CFP Foundation Executive Director Britton Banowsky. We believe championing educators is one of the most impactful ways to support students’ success. The transformation at Sawyer Road Elementary’s media center is a wonderful example of how working together can make a meaningful difference for teachers, students, and families.” 

School Specialty surprised Sawyer Road Elementary with an additional $1,000 donation during their visit. One exceptional Sawyer Road teacher also received a $1,000 award through the Extra Yard for Teachers initiative.