JRJF is committed to supporting students beyond the classroom. Markessa, JRJF Program Lead, has been able to conduct virtual Read with Me! sessions with students since April.
| Once a week Markessa spends time with each student online, reviewing long and short vowel sounds, reading books, practicing reading comprehension, and letter identification. All of these lessons have resulted in each student increasing one grade level using the Edward Fry Readability Test from Pre- Assessment to Post Assessment. Hard work and dedication really do pay off! Pictured Right: Markessa is joined by Takira, 1st Grade, during a virtual Read with Me! session. Takira worked diligently to raise her reading skills up one grade level. Takira's reading skills went from mid-1st grade to mid-2nd grade level. |  |
We continue our efforts to provide resources to our students and are excited to announce that JRJF with the support of partners and donors has been able to distribute over 90 iPads to students within our partner schools: R. Nathaniel Dett Elementary, Sherman School of Excellence, William H. Brown STEM Magnet School. All this was possible through our partner Diamond Assets who provided access to affordable iPads for purchase and for also donating 8 mini-iPads. Special thanks to PNC for donating 3 brand new iPads with cases and iTunes gifts cards. With students needing more access to online resources during the summer and fall months we are continuing our effort to equip students with necessary technology.
 | Pictured Right: Nurrie - 8th grade "To have a chance to own this iPad gives me the confidence to be prepared with relevant tech for high school. Thank you for this!" Pictured Left: SaNiya - 8th grade "This iPad will give me a great chance to have a device for me to be very successful as I prepare for my high school career. Thank you!" |  |
| With the end of in-person programming for the school year many supplies will be recycled for the upcoming school year. However, there was one item that was put to use right away. Thanks to our partners at Gatorade, Propel water bottles that were designated for in-person programming were sent home with families. Over 200 bottles were donated. Water bottles were distributed to families receiving breakfast and lunch from their local CPS food site. There was a need for water within in the community and we were happy to provide such a valuable resource. What an awesome show of support. |  |
Staying Involved
One constant students and families can always depend on is the support we receive from our generous sponsors and partners. Akari, has been a JRJF volunteer for several years, lending his expertise to our S.T.E.A.M. and A-Team Scholars programs. He is an Account Executive at Dell Technologies who loves exposing youths to careers in technology, personal finance and stock investing. He has been in the tech arena for over 15 years and stocking investing for 6. Students are always engaged when Akari leads a session and a virtual presentation was no different.
Pictured Above: Screenshot of Akari's online session. S.T.E.M. teacher Ms. Jones, also joins the group conversation. Students, like Janyla, 8th Grade, reviewed budgets and discussed wants versus needs.
Twenty-eight 7th and 8th grade students from William H. Brown STEM Magnet School joined Akari for a conversation and interactive activity appropriately named “Ballin on a Budget”. Akari takes his life’s journey and sets an example for students while teaching them the importance of living on a budget. During the two online sessions, students engaged in conversations about money management and tallied up their cost of living, defining wants versus needs. The interactive activity resulted in unique challenges and critical thinking. Overall, it was a great opportunity for students to learn a useful life skill from someone with great experience.
Volunteers and donors have taken their knowledge online so that families and students can access content safely and efficiently. Check out these great resources making a lasting impact on the JRJF community. Online Resources
| Carrie is an independent personal trainer and president of More Strength Fitness, Inc. She has trained individuals for 20 years and independent for almost 2 years. Carrie works with people of all ages and health/fitness levels including Vision for Families (VFF) parents and students. During the school year, Carrie has shared her expertise with VFF families by conducting hands-on workshops. In April, she created a special video to get families moving and exercising while at home. By using household items and being mindful of your space, Carrie guides families through a 15 minute at-home workout. |  Pictured Above: Screenshot of Carrie's 15-minute at-home workout available on the student and families online resource page. |