Roanoke, VA – August 19, 2024 – Ridge View Bank hosted their second annual “Fill the Bus” school supply collection for Franklin County and Salem City teachers. The two-day event collected classroom essentials to support area teachers for the start of the school year.
“We are very thankful for the communities we serve, especially our teachers,” said Carrie McConnell, Ridge View Bank President. “Thank you to all who participated in our Fill the Bus event this year, and special thanks to the City of Salem and Franklin County for your help.”
The school districts parked a yellow school bus at Ridge View Bank’s Salem and Smith Mountain Lake locations on August 2 and 9, respectively, to generate awareness and excitement for the collection drive. Collected supplies included markers, pencils, pens, hand wipes, card stock and more.
“The National Education Association reports that on average, educators spend somewhere between $500 and $750 of their own money every year on things students need,” said Dr. Curtis Hicks, Superintendent of Salem City Schools. “We want to thank Ridge View Bank and the community for helping our teachers meet the needs of our students.”
Representatives from Salem City and Franklin County Public Schools joined Ridge View Bank for the collection drive days to help raise awareness. Salem City Schools Superintended Dr. Curtis Hicks, Allison Garland, principal of Windy Gap Elementary School and Carrie Altice, principal of Dudley Elementary School participated in the drive. The Ridge View Bank team also donated supplies to support the cause.
“We’re very appreciative of Ridge View Bank and their support of our teachers,” said Principal Carrie Altice.