When Carlos Garcia, CEO of Akumen Inc., learned more about Sterling Middle School, its community and the work being done to support students and families, it struck a deeply personal chord. Garcia, who immigrated from Portugal at the age of 9, now recalls how critical connection, belonging and opportunity were to his own success.
“Growing up in the U.S., I benefited from the same kind of support that Sterling Middle School is providing its students today,” Garcia said. “Now as an adult, I’m in a position personally and professionally to pay it forward and support a community that reminds me of my own journey.”
That sense of purpose led to a generous donation to Sterling Middle School, an act of giving that goes far beyond dollars. It’s about recognizing the lasting impact that early investment, encouragement and belief can have in students' lives.
Sterling Middle School, a vibrant and diverse learning community in Loudoun County Public Schools, is known for the strength of its students, the steadfastness of its staff and a rich tapestry of cultures and languages. Partnerships like the one being cultivated with Garcia affirm the value of every family’s story and the potential that lives in every classroom every day.
“This is more than a donation,” said Principal Fitzroy Frew. “It’s a reflection of what we’re building at Sterling, relationships that matter, a culture of belonging and a belief in what’s possible when communities come together.”
School business partnerships across LCPS take many forms, from mentoring and in-kind support to classroom visits and career exploration. Whether through time, expertise or financial contributions, each partnership helps create more and more varied pathways to success and connection for students no matter what their interests, passions or futures hold.
In giving back to a school that mirrors his own journey, Garcia has reminded us that the greatest impact often begins with a single act of recognition and the belief that what students experience now will shape who they become and what they one day choose to give in return.