CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) - The Charleston County School District traded textbooks and board meetings for ballroom shoes and glitter Thursday night, as local leaders took center stage for the district's first-ever Battle of the Ballroom fundraiser.
Business owners, mayors, police chiefs, and even a retired NFL player set aside their day jobs to raise money for Charleston County students. Twenty pairs, each featuring a Lowcountry leader or personality, and a professional dancer, competed at Charleston Music Hall after weeks of rehearsal, all in support of the district's Academic Project Fund.
The star-studded lineup included North Charleston Mayor Reggie Burgess, Charleston Mayor William Cogswell, Charleston Police Chief Chito Walker, and retired NFL player Roger Jackson, among others. With cheering crowds and a panel of judges, the competitors vied for top scores and crowd-favorite honors.
Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Organizers said the event raised more than $75,000 through voting donations, with total proceeds, including sponsorships and ticket sales, reaching $175,000. Superintendent Anita Huggins said the money will bolster key district initiatives suc...