Sussex Academy teachers earn Hertrich Cash for Class grants

Three Sussex Academy teachers each received a $1,000 gift Dec. 10 for being named Hertrich Family of Automobile Dealerships Cash for Class winners.

Kindergarten teacher Laurie Smailer, elementary science/math teacher and garden coordinator Donald Ott, and AP Spanish teacher Cameron Smith were all surprised when Hertrich’s Meredith Shockley and school leaders stopped by each classroom with the donation.

Every year, Hertrich opens this friendly competition for educators and administrators seeking funding for projects and equipment to enhance services and programs for area students. Teachers and students submit videos outlining their needs, and the public votes for their favorite Cash for Class video.

Smailer, who also won a grant last year, sought funds to purchase adaptive playground equipment.

“Thanks to the Hertrich Cash for Class program for their amazing contribution,” Smailer said. “This support is instrumental in helping us build an accessible playground designed to welcome every student. We are grateful for community partners who believe in creating opportunities for all kids.”

Ott said the generous grant will take the school garden to the next level of sustainability. 

“By installing water-wise irrigation to more garden beds, naturalizing our pond with a new filtration system and improving our shade structure, we are building a legacy of environmental stewardship that our students can enjoy for years to come," he said.

Smith requested funding for a class walking food tour of South Philly, which he said serves as the culminating experience of the class unit on food and culture. 

“Throughout the unit, students prepared traditional dishes in class, explored authentic Spanish-language media through Netflix, and listened to Duolingo podcasts highlighting the rich Latino influence in South Philadelphia’s Italian Market,” Smith said.

Sussex Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school in Georgetown.