Reset. Recharge. Reimagine.
Celebrating Educators. Cultivating Joy. Creating Belonging.
It all began with a powerful idea from Principal Ashley Gustin at the soon-to-be Mt. Vernon Intermediate School:
“What if we could create a lounge space that truly reflects the heart of our school — a space that recharges our teachers, sparks collaboration, and shows just how much we value their work?”
She brought this vision to Renee Oldham, Executive Director of the Mt. Vernon Education Foundation. Renee immediately recognized the opportunity — not just to renovate a space, but to lead a transformative project rooted in MVEF’s R.O.C. Factor:
Relationships. Opportunity. Connection.
And so, Operation Marauder Makeover was launched — a mission to reimagine the traditional teachers’ lounge into a place of joy, wellness, and community.
Why Now?
As we prepare to bring educators and staff from four different schools together under one roof for the opening of MV Intermediate School, we’re not just creating a new building — we’re creating a new culture.
We knew that our educators and staff needed more than walls and whiteboards. They needed a home base — a space that reflects their value, fuels their energy, and honors their impact.
What’s Inside the Transformation?
Thanks to the generosity of our incredible community partners, we are completely redesigning the space to include:
- A vibrant, colorful aesthetic designed lounge to uplift and inspire
- Multiple gathering zones for collaboration and connection, including new furniture, and a coffee/computer bar
- New appliances for convenience and special surprises…
- Core values were woven into the space to reflect our shared purpose
- A fully equipped coffee bar for those much-needed moments of joy
- Comfortable sofa lounges for conversation, laughter, or a quiet reset
- A beautifully designed Mindful Reset Room, complete with:
- Massage chairs
- Sound machines
- Soft lighting
- And other thoughtful touches to support emotional well-being
- A true space for celebration, relaxation, and community building
Meet the Dream Team
This transformation wouldn’t be possible without the generosity of our local champions who stepped up to donate their time, services, materials, and heart:
- Walmart IND #3
- Joyner Homes
- The Hagerman Group
- In-Line Painting
- The Gooding Family
- Eye4Group
- Ron and Renee Oldham
Their belief in the power of educators is quite literally built into the walls.
There’s Still Time to Join In
We’re not finished yet — and there’s still room for YOU to be part of this inspiring project.
Whether you’re a business, individual, or family, your support can help us finish strong and fully stock the space with supplies and finishing touches. Renee has a list of items that are still needed!
Because when staff feel appreciated, energized, and cared for, it shows up in their classrooms, in their students, and across our community.
Follow the Journey
📸 We’ll be sharing the transformation as it unfolds — follow us on Facebook to see photos, updates, and special thanks to our partners.
🎉 And get ready — because we have something very special to celebrate this school year.
Are we excited?
You betcha.
Let’s build something beautiful — together.
Contact Renee at Renee@MtVernonFoundation.org or 765.462.6313