ATLANTA — Popular Atlanta Hawks forward Paul Millsap will be giving out new backpacks and school supplies for the entire student body of the soon-to-be-opened M.R. Hollis Innovation Academy on Atlanta’s Westside.
Working through his Paul Millsap Foundation, the three-time all-star will deliver the backpacks to families on Monday, Aug. 1 at 12 p.m. at the school’s inaugural open house and registration.
The 2016-17 school year officially begins on Wednesday, Aug. 3 for students.
The new Academy is located on the Westside, less than 10 minutes away from Philips Arena, and is a core part of the Westside revitalization efforts and its dedication to creating sustainable education. Approximately 25 percent of the current student population is homeless and 100% qualify for a free or reduced lunch program.
“Education has always been of significant importance to me and my family. I’m thankful that through my foundation I can provide much-needed supplies to children as they start school and some relief to parents who have a hard time making ends meet,” Millsap said.
The new STEM school is named for Michael R. Hollis, an African-American entrepreneur who graduated from Washington High School on the Westside. When the academy opens on Wednesday, it will serve grades Pre-K through 5th, and grow one grade each year until it becomes Pre-K though 8th.
“The staff and students at Hollis are grateful for the tremendous partnership and support from the Paul Millsap Foundation,” said Dr. Diamond Jack, principal of Hollis Innovation Academy. “The backpacks and supplies are critical to help our families start the school year off strong.”
Hollis Innovation Academy is also a part of the EL Education network of schools, which has utilized research-based strategies to transform education for over 20 years in over 150 schools across 30 states.
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