District of Columbia: NBA star, Mason, brings new, social media to E.L Haynes

Native Washingtonian Roger Mason, Jr., Guard for the NBA San Antonio Spurs, and E.L. Haynes Public Charter School have begun an "Adopt a Classroom" partnership. Mason will connect with E.L. Haynes students over the course of the school year and NBA season via various forms of new and social media. Partnership elements will include:

1. Shared blog on the E.L. Haynes Web site
2. Skype video calls between Mason and E.L. Haynes students
3. Twitter and Facebook updates
4. School and classroom visits

The partnership will kick off with a "Movie Night with Mase," a special event for 50 E.L. Haynes students Thursday at 6pm. Students in grades 4-7 will win the opportunity to attend by participating in a school essay contest, writing about why hard work is important. The students will watch the 2003 Academy Award winning "The Chubb Chubbs" and "Open Season 2," provided by SONY. The event is hosted by the Motion Picture Association of America in their 75-seat screening theater. The students will also receive a SONY backpack filled with school supplies provided by SONY and Staples, Inc.

Jennifer Niles, E.L. Haynes' Founder and Head of School, said, "Mason stands as an exemplar of E.L. Haynes' motto: 'Be Kind, Work Hard, Get Smart.' We are thrilled to embark on this exciting, technology-enhanced partnership and know that Mason will be an inspiration to our students."

For more information on Mason's "Adopt a Classroom" partnership call (202) 667-4446.