| January 2, 2009 Oprah gives Ron Clark Academy $365K
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(NECN/ABC) - They sang and danced their way into election history. Now, the students of Atlanta's Ron Clark Academy are reaping the rewards of their hard work -- all thanks to a letter from Oprah Winfrey, one of the school's biggest fans.
"And I freaked out and my eyes got really big, and I was just excited to have the letter," Ron Clark said. "But then a sheet of paper fell out on the floor and I picked it up and looked it was a check for $365,000 and I was just overwhelmed."
A thousand dollars for each day of the year, or enough to provide scholarships for 26 students who come from largely underprivileged backgrounds.
The school has been celebrated for its innovative teaching methods. Students learn their lessons through texting, trips around the world and even creating their own rap songs.
It was the electoral song that made the students overnight internet sensations. People just could not get enough of their catchy tune, encouraging people to vote.
School founder Ron Clark said that was the point.
"We know that if you can really fire kids up and you can put passion in the classroom, they're going to love to learn," Clark said. "You're going to have great test scores. And you're going to have kids that are going to be life long learners."
The students at Ron Clark academy have already created a new song in honor of President-elect Barack Obama. One that they hope to perform at his Inauguration.
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