Spring Hill home builder John Maher donated $14,000 to Independence High Tuesday to help cover the cost of bleachers for the school’s baseball, softball, soccer and tennis facilities, but this wasn’t the first time the builder has stepped up to help area schools.

“We’ve approached him several times, not just for athletics, and he has helped us,” said Darren Henrie, IHS athletic director.
Since Independence High opened in 2004, John Maher Builders has donated more than $9,000 for athletic, band and theater equipment and set a new standard for area builders, contractors and realtors.

“He’s leading the way and I hope he is setting a new standard,” said Principal Marilyn Webb.

Schools have so many needs that go beyond the basic ‘in the classroom’ needs. To meet those needs, fundraisers have become a part of the school environment.

“A lot of public schools are in need in so many ways,” Henrie said. “For John Maher Builders to be so generous, I hope other builders, contractors and Realtors step up and can help us out along the way when we have needs parents can’t provide.”

But setting a standard isn’t Maher’s objective. His interest in schools is personal and his interest in education goes a long way back. A longtime county resident and former Franklin Junior High teacher, he has three children in Williamson County Schools and one who recently graduated.

“My calling as a teacher still continues,” he said. “The people who influenced my life the most were teachers and coaches so anytime I can help them achieve their goals, it’s personally satisfying to me.”

While the county provided the athletic fields and facilities, the school’s athletic club has been working to provide other amenities and Maher stepped up to the plate by providingprovide funds for many of those amenities.

“Being in the home building business I am reminded daily how much prospective buyers respect the school system,” Maher said at press conference where he presented the check for the bleachers. “I very much appreciate, from the county commissioners to the teachers, the whole system and what it provides. We want to be involved in something positive. What’s better than the school system? It is a very good, positive way to give back to the community.”

Every business in Williamson County benefits from the growth, Maher said.