On Wednesday, Jan. 15, Savannah Classical Academy (SCA) launched its new donor recognition program with a special event recognizing 16 community partners who have helped SCA grow into what it is today.     

SCA Director Barry Lollis kicked off the event by updating attendees on the school’s recent accomplishments and sharing a brief history of SCA, which began in a borrowed building in 2013 before generous donors made it possible for SCA to build a permanent campus at 705 E Anderson St. Lollis then recognized each of the 16 donors with a special plaque and gift. Donors recognized at this event, along with future benefactors, will have their names engraved in a commemorative plaque which will be displayed in SCA.

“Through the efforts of our generous community partners and donors, SCA has continued to grow and expand its programs each year,” said Lollis. “We are eternally grateful to the businesses and individuals being recognized today, as well as all those who have advocated for SCA through the years.”    

After honoring donors, Lollis shared details about the school’s new programs and future growth including the expansion of its athletic programs and addition of a culinary arts program. Last year, through a generous donation, SCA renovated its gymnasium to accommodate for the expansion of athletic opportunities. SCA’s kitchen is currently being finished as the last phase of construction through the school’s partnership with Daniel Reed Hospitality, which will give students in the culinary arts program access to a state-of-the-art facility.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are extremely grateful for our donors’ commitment to SCA and its students,” said SCA Board President Scott McGhie. “We are enormously proud of SCA’s student body, teachers and staff, as well as the wonderful programs and facilities offered as a result of donors’ efforts. We truly can’t thank them enough.”

SCA students concluded this special event with performances by the Spartan Singers, directed by SCA music teacher Lawanda Allen and musical theatre teacher Ray Ellis, and the Strings Conservatory Ensemble, led by SCA strings teacher and Savannah Philharmonic Chorusmaster Dr. Sinisa Ciric.

“SCA is one of only three schools in the district offering a strings program and, thanks again to our community partners and donors, these students are fortunate to have a unique partnership with Savannah Philharmonic,” stated Lollis. “In addition, because of donors such as William Harris Lee & Company, we are able to provide participants with instruments at no cost.”

SCA is a K-12 public charter school open to all students residing in Chatham Count, with a mission to provide every child with a classical and academically rigorous education while instilling a commitment to civic virtue and moral character. SCA is committed to developing literate and articulate students who will become active, responsible members of the community and will make a positive contribution to society.

If you would like to be a part of SCA’s success story, please consider supporting its students and initiatives at the following levels:

Ellis Supporter: $5,000 and above

Madison Supporter: $25,000-$49,999

Monterey Supporter: $10,000-$24,999

Reynolds Supporter: $5,000-$9,999

Telfair Supporter: $1,000-$4,999

Wright Supporter: up to $999