Michelle Obama teamed up with Ellen DeGeneres to make a large substantial donation to Randle Highlands Elementary School in Southeast D.C.

The school stood out to the pair because its entire student body is economically disadvantaged, and roughly 65% percent of the student population is either in foster care or homeless.

“We actually sit on the hill in Southeast D.C. It’s considered one of the roughest areas in D.C.,” Randle Highlands Principal Kristie Edwards said in an interview with Ellen DeGeneres. “But that’s OK. When our students come in here they expect the same thing — that’s to get love, a hug and to ensure that they’re in a safe space.”

The former first lady was unhappy with the school's amenities and decided to make a donation of $100,000 that the school can do what it wants with.


"Whatever expenses that you have for the school, whether it’s the food pantry or whether it’s computer programs, we hope that this will make sure that you won’t have to go into your pockets any longer for these kids,” Obama said.

The former first lady got on the school's speaker system to call for an assembly in the gymnasium. Once all were gathered, Obama announced that she would donate a new basketball court, brand new computers, laptops for the teachers and enough iPads for every single student.

“Growing up, my parents always taught me that it’s not enough to go through life just working for yourself,” Obama said. “You gotta reach back and lift others along the way.”

The hope is that the donations will allow the teachers and students at Randle Highlands to focus on education and their relationships with one another.