Gastonia, N.C. - Gaston County Schools is the first school district in North Carolina to place business and community advertisements on the exterior of activity buses.  The advertisements must feature a character-based education message.  The project is an innovative way to generate additional revenue for the school system to offset state budget cuts.

Advertisements appear only on white activity buses, not on school buses.  All advertisements must be approved by the school district and include a character-based education message.  Motorists can expect to see the first advertisements on the sides of GCS activity buses this month.  

Treescapes, Inc. of Gastonia and Run for the Money already signed on to advertise their company along with a character-based education message on the exterior of the school system’s activity buses.

Superintendent L. Reeves McGlohon says, “Gaston County Schools is looking at all innovative and alternative ways to provide additional revenue for the district.   Advertising on activity buses generates an extra source of funding for our school system at a time when we desperately need it.  Like other districts in the state, our school system continues to face budget shortfalls and we need funds now more than ever.”

McGlohon also says the program provides an opportunity for the school district to establish partnerships with local businesses and community organizations to help advertise their products and services while promoting character education.

Treescapes, Inc. of Gastonia and The Gaston Community Foundation’s Run for the Money will have decals on activity buses supporting the program. Other companies and organization are already expressing an interest in advertising including The James Worthy Foundation.

Treescapes, Inc. president Tracy Philbeck says, “What a great way to use advertising dollars – the activity buses are seen by so many people and travel all over the county.  This is a win-win situation. It creates brand loyalty and awareness of a company’s product or service and ensures a source of revenue for the schools.”

Gaston County Schools hopes car dealerships; financial institutions; real estate groups; and computer, cell phone and technology companies; and other community businesses will recognize the value of the advertisement initiative.

Say It Here! Communications (www.ucansayithere.com) is responsible for the advertising.