Photo ID (L to R): Dr. Adrienne Battle (Director of Schools, Metro Nashville Public Schools), Dr. Brit Sikes (Principal, Una Elementary School), Blake McDaniel
Photo Credit: PENCIL
Nashville, Tenn. (June 3, 2025) – PENCIL, a Nashville nonprofit supporting Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS), celebrated a major milestone when its Clean Clothes for Kids (CC4K) program donated its 50th washer-dryer set to an MNPS school, at Una Elementary in Southeast Nashville. A ribbon cutting of sorts was held at the school to mark the occasion.
MNPS leadership, PENCIL representatives, and educators whose students have benefitted from CC4K gathered to recognize the milestone as well as honor Blake McDaniel, a successful Nashville talent agent who launched the initiative in 2018 after learning about how limited access to washing machines can create a stigma and embarrassment for young students, leading to increases in absenteeism, or a reluctance to participate in athletic programs.
“Absenteeism is one of the leading indicators whether a student will drop out of school and subsequently what their life path will end up being,” said Blake in his address. “You have taken that factor off the table for so many kids” referring to his friends and family in the room who have donated funds, supplies, and time and the MNPS staff and volunteers who have washed clothes.
The crowd also heard from Dr. Adrienne Battle, MNPS Director of Schools, and Christiane Buggs, PENCIL President & CEO, before going to view the washer and dryer, which were in use at the time. Dr. Brit Sikes, Principal at Una, shared that since the machines were installed she has seen attendance improve among her students facing housing insecurity. PENCIL provided Dr. Sikes with two dozen backpacks so that more children can discreetly bring their unwashed clothes to school and benefit from this important gift.
About PENCIL
Founded in 1982, PENCIL links community resources to Metro Nashville Public Schools to help young people achieve academic success and prepare for life. PENCIL’s work is guided by the needs of MNPS, is student-centric, and is achieved through partnerships and tangible engagements. PENCIL envisions a world where access and opportunities are equitable for all students to have a successful future. To learn more, visit pencilforschools.org.
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