THRIVE grants fuel school culture and leadership

Two elementary schools are turning classrooms into communities with the help of the new THRIVE Grant from the Union County Education Foundation (UCEF). Waxhaw Elementary and Porter Ridge Elementary each received $14,000 to expand or launch the Ron Clark Academy House System, a nationally recognized program that builds leadership, belonging and school spirit.

The THRIVE Grant, part of UCEF’s Innovation Grant program, funds principal-led projects that strengthen schoolwide leadership and culture.

The House System divides students into cross-grade houses that act like small families within the school. Students earn points for demonstrating positive behavior, teamwork and participation, which are then celebrated through assemblies, competitions and schoolwide events. The system helps students grow as leaders while developing collaboration and a strong sense of belonging.

At Waxhaw Elementary, the House System is in its fourth year. Principal Jamie Hunt said the grant will expand traditions, deepen community partnerships and help students take even more pride in their school.

“Even our kindergartners start learning about their house right away,” said music teacher Emily Rhodes. “By the end of the year, they have a celebration where they officially join. It helps students realize their purpose and that they belong here.”

Funding will support banners, signage, spirit wear, hall displays and leadership roles, including House Leaders and the House Hype Crew.

Waxhaw will also create a flexible fund to support student-driven initiatives and service projects, such as a microplastics awareness campaign tied to monthly House meetings. Hunt said early results are promising, with improved attendance, more student leadership and stronger behavior across the school.

At Porter Ridge Elementary, the House System, titled From Pirates to Leaders: Building School Culture One House at a Time, is just starting. Principal Kristi Williford and a team of teachers attended the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta over the summer to learn how older students can mentor younger ones and how schoolwide celebrations can unite the entire school community.

“Kids want to move, engage and have fun while learning,” said fourth-grade teacher Johnny Lopez. “This grant helps us make school fun again while creating a culture where everyone feels like they belong.”

The Porter Ridge grant will fund staff professional development, banners, flags, shirts, murals and incentives to recognize student achievement and participation. The system launches with a small group this year, with plans to expand and eventually connect with other schools in the Porter Ridge cluster. Teachers also plan to visit schools already using the House System to learn best practices and avoid potential challenges.

Whether expanding an established system at Waxhaw or launching a new one at Porter Ridge, the THRIVE Grants empower schools to cultivate a sense of community and pride that transcends the classroom experience.

“The excitement, pride and sense of family aren’t just activities,” Hunt said. “They’re transforming our school culture for today and the future.”

UCEF also awarded LIFT Grants to several UCPS teachers for innovative classroom projects, including Exceptional Children teacher Amy Rogers at Weddington Middle School for “The Learning Garden” ($1,000); English as a Second Language teacher Mihaela Sanchez at Sun Valley High School for “World Cup: Voices Beyond the Field” ($1,500); Student Council advisor Jennifer Goodson at Sun Valley High School for “Weekend Backpacks” ($1,500); drama teacher Nicole DePietro at Central Academy of Technology and Arts for “Sewing Success: Inspiring Creativity and Responsibility” ($1,500); and art teacher Vanessa VanDerveer at Rock Rest Elementary for “STEAM Powered Classroom” ($1,500).