Makayla Nash, a teacher in Nashville who went viral after gifting 100 students with brand-new Nike Air Force 1 sneakers.
Nashville Teacher Surprises Students with Nike Air Force 1s
The Act of Joy
- What happened? Makayla Nash, a Restorative Practices Specialist at John Early Middle School in North Nashville, gifted 100 students a pair of Nike Air Force 1 sneakers.
- Why it matters: She recognized that students from low-income families (many earning less than $18,500 a year) often lacked confidence because of their appearance. Providing name-brand shoes helped boost their morale, attendance, and participation.
How It Happened
- The sneaker donations were made possible through her nonprofit, Drip Drive, with generous support from JD Sports and Finish Line.
- This was the second year Nash organized the initiative, reflecting her ongoing commitment to student well-being.
The Ripple Effect
- After she posted a photo on social media, the story quickly went viral, touching hearts across platforms.
- Nash said, “The joy of seeing their faces makes it all worth it,” underscoring the emotional and psychological impact of small acts of kindness.
Summary Table
| Element | Details |
|---|---|
| Teacher | Makayla Nash, Restorative Practices Specialist, John Early Middle School |
| What | Gave 100 students Nike Air Force 1 sneakers |
| Why | To boost confidence and support students in low-income families |
| Partner Support | Donations facilitated by JD Sports and Finish Line via Drip Drive |
| Impact | Went viral; highlighted equity and compassion in education |
