Anderson-based Matrix Construction recently provided a $5,000 donation towards Lead Academy’s electric bus initiative.
The initiative aims to address the public charter school’s transportation challenges caused by frequent breakdowns of its diesel buses. In 2025, Lead Academy was awarded a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to replace two diesel buses with new electric buses. The new electric buses are expected to arrive at Lead Academy in Greenville by the end of the year.
“Our new buses aren’t just transportation, they’re opportunities on wheels,” said Curtis Baker, principal of Lead Academy. “They open the door for learning beyond the classroom through more field trips, real-world experiences and lasting memories for our students.”
Approximately $14,000 remains to be raised for the school’s electric bus initiative. Lead Academy is also raising an additional $40,000 to install electric charging stations for the buses.
Matrix Construction previously worked with Lead Academy to construct a 47,000-square-foot facility for the school and a 17,500-square-foot gymnasium and classroom addition. Hew King, president and co-founder of Matrix Construction, said the company’s goal is to contribute to environments where students can succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
“We believe in the bigger picture, what we build and how we give back should ultimately improve lives,” King said.
