– Waterford School District

When evaluating new partnerships, we look beyond enrollment numbers and focus on where our mission can create the greatest benefit for students and families. Waterford quickly emerged as a district that aligns perfectly with our vision of inspiring confidence in youth by providing access to orthodontic care that might otherwise be financially unattainable.

One of the most encouraging moments during our early discussions came during a conversation with Superintendent Adam Martin. After reviewing our program and learning about the lives that have already been changed through The Happy Teeth Project, we asked if Waterford would be interested in partnering with us. His response was immediate and heartfelt: “Whatever helps my kids, I want to do.”

That simple statement reflects the student-centered leadership that makes Waterford such an outstanding partner. It reinforced our belief that together we can create opportunities that extend far beyond orthodontic treatment. A confident smile can impact a student’s self-esteem, social development, academic engagement, and future opportunities, making this partnership an investment in the whole child.

In the coming months, we will work closely with district leadership to formally announce the application process, including eligibility requirements, key dates, selection criteria, and program details. We will also engage local businesses, community organizations, and individual supporters to help fund and expand these efforts, allowing us to serve even more students in the years ahead.

Our initial commitment is to provide orthodontic treatment opportunities for two Waterford students during the upcoming school year. However, our long-term goal is to grow the program through additional community partnerships and fundraising efforts so that more deserving students can benefit from life-changing orthodontic care.

These efforts will initially be supported through partnerships with Haven Orthodontics and Lazarus Orthodontics, whose commitment to serving youth in our communities continues to be instrumental in helping The Happy Teeth Project fulfill its mission.