Mazda Donates $40,000 to Support Local Educators and Schools in Los Angeles

Mazda's Commitment to Education in Los Angeles

In a heartwarming initiative aimed at enhancing educational resources, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) has made a noteworthy donation of $40,000 to benefit four dedicated educators from Southern California. This generous contribution is part of Mazda’s long-term partnership with the Los Angeles Chargers and aligns with the company’s community engagement platform, Be Moved.

The Be Moved initiative focuses on recognizing and celebrating individuals who inspire others, a vision vividly brought to life through the tremendous efforts of these educators. They play an instrumental role in shaping the futures of their students by fostering leadership, creativity, and personal growth. During surprise visits to local schools, players from the Los Angeles Chargers joined Mazda representatives to present each educator with a $10,000 donation and tickets to attend the Legends Homecoming Game.

On November 8, these four educators were acknowledged on the field at SoFi Stadium, receiving cheers from fans as they showcased their commitment to nurturing the youth of Los Angeles. Each educator exemplifies a unique approach to teaching and helps students connect with their strengths through innovative programs.

Spotlight on the Honorees

Sarah Taylor

Sarah Taylor serves as a special education teacher for 11th and 12th graders at Da Vinci Communications. Through a project-based inclusive learning approach, she strives to engage students with diverse learning needs, helping them to recognize their own strengths and effectively prepare for life after high school.

Naomi Lara

Naomi Lara, the principal of Da Vinci RISE High, brings over 15 years of experience in alternative education. She has forged partnerships with local organizations to introduce various activities like cooking, gardening, art, and music, allowing students to explore new interests and develop essential life skills.

Lauren Shakstad

Lauren Shakstad, a physical education teacher in the Wiseburn Unified School District, teaches in all three primary schools within the district. She helps students of all abilities to build confidence and teamwork skills via physical education, encouraging them to discover enjoyable physical activities beyond school hours.

Brandy Garcia

Eighth-grade math teacher and student council advisor Brandy Garcia at Wiseburn Middle School emphasizes the importance of student engagement and responsibility. She guides her students in activity planning and representing their peers in government, all while fostering a secure and supportive classroom environment. "My mother taught me to value education, and I became a teacher to instill that same encouragement in my students," Brandy reflects. "Thanks to Mazda's donation, my students have a voice in classroom resources, from manipulatives for math to educational screens tailored to their learning styles."

Beyond the Classroom

Mazda’s Be Moved initiative has significantly impacted local communities, contributing over $65,000 towards schools in Southern California in the past two years alone. These funds not only enhance resources but also expand opportunities for both students and teachers, reflecting Mazda's ongoing commitment to community improvement.

Mazda's contribution to education is not only a financial commitment but a partnership that seeks to empower educators and uplift the communities they serve. By prioritizing educational engagement, Mazda reinforces its role as a responsible corporate citizen dedicated to making a positive impact.

To find out more about Mazda’s community engagement efforts and the Be Moved platform, visit Mazda's Be Moved initiative.

About Mazda North American Operations

Founded in Hiroshima, Japan, Mazda has built a legacy of craftsmanship and innovation aimed at enriching the lives of those it serves. Focusing on creating inspiring experiences through its vehicles and the people within the Mazda family, Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, California, overseeing the sales and marketing of Mazda vehicles across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and Colombia.

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