WORCESTER — Tuesday, October 7, 2025 – Students and teachers at Chandler Elementary Community School are receiving an extra boost this school year thanks to a donation from NFL cornerback and Doherty Memorial High School alumnus Isaac Yiadom.
During the Isaac Yiadom Back to School Giveback, more than $5,000 worth of backpacks, school supplies and classroom materials were donated to students and staff at Chandler Elementary. The donation effort was made possible by Yiadom’s brand partners, including BIC, Westcott Brand, a leading brand in scissors, rulers, and classroom tools, and the New Orleans Saints.
At a school assembly attended by Superintendent Brian E. Allen, Mayor Joseph M. Petty, members of the Yiadom family and WPS leadership, more than 400 students at Chandler Elementary received backpacks full of school supplies, including folders, notebooks, pens & pencils and a variety of other school items. Teachers were also donated additional materials to ensure students have access to school supplies throughout the year.
Students had the opportunity to take part in a live Q&A session with Yiadom, asking him about his inspirations, success habits, and advice for helping others. In recognition of his generosity and commitment to Worcester, Mayor Joseph M. Petty presented Yiadom with a Key to the City.
“We are grateful to Isaac Yiadom, the New Orleans Saints, and all of the partners involved in supporting our students and teachers with this donation,” said Worcester Public Schools Superintendent Allen. “These school supplies ensure every student at Chandler Elementary has the tools to succeed in the classroom.”
“This generous donation of school supplies will make a meaningful difference for our students, teachers, and families,” said Chandler Elementary Principal Margaret Murphy. “Having the materials they need helps students feel prepared, confident, and supported. This donation shows that community leaders like Isaac believe in the classroom success of students in Worcester."
“At Westcott, we believe every child deserves the tools to unlock their creativity and potential,” said Lisa Apostol, Vice President, General Manager of Westcott Brand. “We’re thrilled to join Isaac Yiadom and our fellow partners in giving back to Worcester students and teachers. Knowing that Westcott products will be in the hands of more than 400 students this fall is incredibly meaningful to us.”
Yiadom, who led the Doherty Highlanders to a state championship in football in 2013, was unable to attend due to his NFL obligations but joined via Zoom call to send a message of support to his hometown community.
“My heart is always with Worcester. School should be a time of excitement and opportunity — not stress over supplies. I’m proud to play a small part in helping these kids and the incredible teachers who support them every day," Yiadom said.
Yiadom’s decision to support Chandler Elementary came out of a personal connection. While looking for ways to give back to the City of Worcester, he connected with a former classmate whose mother, Luann Gallagher, is a kindergarten teacher at Chandler Elementary. From there, the idea took shape, with Yiadom providing supplies for the entire school.
Yiadom is in his seventh season in the NFL and currently plays for New Orleans. Yiadom starred at Division 1 Boston College, and was drafted 99th overall in the third round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
