September 12, 2025

PENCIL Milestone Reaches $20 Million in School Supplies

Nashville, September 12, 2025

News Summary

Nashville’s PENCIL nonprofit has marked a key achievement by distributing over $20 million in school supplies to Metro Nashville Public Schools. Since its inception in 2006, PENCIL has dedicated itself to supporting educators with essential resources, advocating for equitable education throughout the community. During the most recent school year, more than $2.91 million in supplies were provided, ensuring that teachers have access to vital classroom materials. PENCIL’s mission continues by engaging community members and organizing events to support local educators and students.

Nashville Nonprofit PENCIL Celebrates $20 Million Milestone in Supporting Metro Nashville Public Schools

Nashville’s nonprofit organization PENCIL has reached a significant milestone, distributing over $20 million in school supplies to Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) since its establishment in 2006. This achievement reflects the organization’s commitment to supporting educators and enhancing educational resources for all students in the Nashville area.

PENCIL’s Mission and Contributions

PENCIL thrives on building strategic partnerships between community resources and MNPS. The organization aims to ensure equitable access to education by providing teachers with essential supplies at no cost. In the 2023-24 school year alone, PENCIL distributed more than $2.91 million worth of school supplies, including core classroom essentials, during special teacher appreciation events.

Each MNPS educator can access approximately $2,000 worth of core supplies annually through the DG PENCIL Box program, which collaborates with the Dollar General Literacy Foundation. This partnership has grown significantly, reflecting a robust community engagement and volunteer support for the initiative.

Community Involvement and Events

To keep its mission alive, PENCIL encourages community members to contribute school supplies at collection sites around Nissan Stadium during Titans games. Community members can donate items ranging from pencil boxes and paper towels to backpacks and art supplies. Additionally, an online wish list allows individuals to purchase supplies directly for PENCIL.

Upcoming events, such as the Together 4 Teachers Pep Rally scheduled for July 29, 2024, at GEODIS Park, aim to celebrate MNPS teachers and address their needs for the upcoming school year. Nashville SC is also organizing a Teacher Appreciation Night on July 17, where fans are encouraged to bring pencils for donation.

Support from Sponsors

Coca-Cola Consolidated is a leading sponsor of the Together 4 Teachers Pep Rally, providing teachers with portable chargers and slushies during the event. PENCIL has also scheduled a Pack-a-Thon event to occur before the pep rally, during which tote bags filled with school supplies for Metro teachers will be assembled.

Fundraising Success

PENCIL organized its annual fundraiser, “Little Night Of Music,” in April 2024, raising over $365,000 to support MNPS students. Cumulatively, the event has raised more than $2.4 million, which funds resources including career mentors, tutors, and essential school supplies for vulnerable families.

Conclusion

PENCIL continues to make a significant impact on the educational landscape in Nashville, enhancing the availability of resources for educators and students alike. With ongoing community support and innovative partnerships, PENCIL is poised to further its mission of equitable education for all students in Metro Nashville.

FAQs

What is PENCIL?

PENCIL is a nonprofit organization focused on building partnerships to support educators and students in Metro Nashville Public Schools.

How much has PENCIL distributed in school supplies?

Since its inception in 2006, PENCIL has distributed over $20 million worth of school supplies to Metro Nashville Public Schools.

What programs does PENCIL offer to educators?

Each MNPS educator can access around $2,000 worth of core supplies at no charge each year through the DG PENCIL Box program.

How can community members help?

Community members can donate school supplies at collection sites during Titans games or through an online wish list created by PENCIL.

What upcoming events are planned?

The Together 4 Teachers Pep Rally will be held on July 29, 2024, and a Teacher Appreciation Night hosted by Nashville SC is scheduled for July 17, 2024.

Key Features of PENCIL Initiatives

Feature	Description
Support for Educators	PENCIL provides each MNPS educator with around $2,000 worth of supplies annually at no charge.
Community Donations	Supplies can be donated at Titans games or purchased from an online wish list.
Collaboration with Sponsors	PENCIL partners with organizations like Dollar General and Coca-Cola Consolidated to enhance their resources.
Upcoming Events	Events like the Together 4 Teachers Pep Rally promote community engagement and celebrate educators.
Fundraising Success	The organization raised over $365,000 in April 2024 during their annual fundraising event.

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Author: HERE Nashville

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