We have an exciting announcement…
Introducing our Newest Center- North Side Elementary!
For the first time ever, we launched a THINK Leadership program at an elementary school!
This opportunity to work with 3rd and 4th graders was made possible thanks to Firewall’s partnership with Broward County Public Schools, 21st Century Learning Center, and Church United. We have a great team of mentors that are already making a big impact on over 90 students on a daily basis. That is over 20% of the school population!
North Side Elementary is a Title I school with 98% minority students and 97% of its students receiving free/reduced lunch. Many of the students that are now enrolled in Firewall are significantly below reading level and also have trouble writing.
We recognize and are ready to respond to this need. We know that there are so many opportunities for growth, and this is definitely just the beginning of an exciting journey. Our team is ready to make a difference in these children’s lives.
Erika Ranslow, North Side Elementary Teacher and 21st Century Coordinator, said ‘When our 3rd grade parents heard about Firewall, they were lining up for applications. But it’s not just the parents noticing, I have teachers coming to me daily asking how they can sneak ‘just one student’ into the program. Our students are already more confident, responsible and so proud of the work they are accomplishing.’
Expressing Gratitude Early On
Meet Frances. She is a 3rd grader at North Side Elementary and within the first week of Firewall, she had an immediate connection with her mentors!
Firewall Student, Lead Mentor Annalyse, and Frances
One day, while the students were lined up and waiting to go to their classroom, Frances pulled out colored pencils from her jacket pocket and leaned against a wall to make a ‘Thank you’ card for her Lead Mentor Annalyse. She wanted to make it as soon as possible even though she didn’t have a desk to use. She just couldn’t wait to give it to her. It is encouraging to see how these young students are already connecting with their mentors and truly enjoying Firewall!
Firewall Students Posing for a Quick Picture
The 2017 – 2018 School Year is already off to a great start, and we can’t wait to continue to share our experiences with our elementary students, as well as the 500 students we serve daily!
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