Former Bassette Elementary student gives back to the school

 

Cedric Welch-Muhammad attended Bassette Elementary School in second grade during the 1979-1980 school year, but he has never forgotten his experience there. He decided he wanted to give back to this school that he remembers so fondly.

 

Welch-Muhammad is now the CEO of Hip Hoppreneur, which connects entertainers, artists and athletes to community development.

 

In a letter to the school Welch-Muhammad said, “I attended Bassette Elementary in 2nd grade during the 1979–1980 school year while my father was stationed at Fort Monroe, VA. For the 40 years since I left your school, I have never forgotten the beautiful experience I had and the nurturing I received.” He went on to say, “For years I have wanted to give back to Bassette Elementary, but never knew how.”

 

After talking with the current principal, Shelly Spain, Welch-Muhammad decided to donate enough funds to provide every staff member at the school with a gift card to Walmart.

 

In addition to the generous donation of Welch-Muhammad, Bassette also received a donation of hundreds of books of various reading levels from WHRO. Numerous community members also donated money for the purchase of gift cards for Bassette students. Because of this generosity, each student at the school will receive a book and a Walmart gift card before winter break.

 

“Working with our community partners is so rewarding when you see the benefits our staff, students and their families receive,” said Diane Campbell, family engagement specialist. “All stakeholders appreciate the generous support given. What awesome dedicated and committed acts of kindness Bassette has experienced.”

 

While the 2020 school year has looked very different due to COVID-19, our community partners continue to show support for our schools! We are so appreciative of our supportive community.