On Tuesday, Feb. 24, Croft Community School cut the ribbon to unveil a redesigned library space in partnership with the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), College Football Playoff Foundation and School Specialty. 

“We really wanted to create a space that was student friendly and a place where students could get excited about reading,” said Principal Shannon Hamilton. “We wanted to recreate the magic of walking into a library and finding nooks and places to sit to get comfortable with a good book.”

As students entered the library, they gasped, pointed and smiled as they took in the new furniture. ACC Commissioner James Phillips said that today’s makeover doesn’t just benefit students today, but future generations of Croft students. 

“The greatest gift we have is our young children and education,” said Phillips. “Investment in young people through education is at the top of the priority list for all of us, and this is just a small way for us to give back. This is a wonderful school led by incredible teachers who are really committed to educating the youth of tomorrow.” 

Art teacher Christine Cockerham was also surprised with $1,000 thanks to the Extra Yard for Teachers program through the CFP Foundation and ACC.

“She puts her heart in everything around here,” said Hamilton. “Dr. Hill talks about the environment we create for our kids, and she’s such an important part of that. Cockerham makes our school just a beautiful, welcoming, kid-friendly space.”