February 2024

Dear Friends,

Before February comes to a close, we wish to share some updates with you. The second semester of the 2023-2024 school year continues to find our staff and volunteers busy with implementing the various programs and services in six schools in the Akron Public Schools. We began the new year with a retreat consisting of combined staff members from Project GRAD Akron (PGA) and the Akron Public Schools (APS), who are jointly implementing the AIM HIGH GEAR UP grant for students currently in the 8th and 9th grades. It was wonderful watching the teams come together to implement strategies to support student success.

Thanks to generous contributions from our supporters, we have been able to increase our program staff to provide additional direct support to our students. In the next few newsletters, we will be highlighting some of our staff members. Stay tuned as we feature their stories, contributions, and plans for the future.

As always, thank you for your continued support of our organization as we strive to make a positive impact in the lives of our students. If you are interested in volunteering with Project GRAD Akron or should you desire any additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me at 330-761-3113 or via email at info@projectgradakron.org. Thank you for your continued support!

Sincerely,

Jacqueline A. Silas-Butler, Esq.

Executive Director

Please join us in welcoming Kenneth Amos to the Project GRAD Akron staff as our newest College and Career Advisor. Kenneth graduated from Buchtel CLC in 2019 and was a PGA Scholar. Recently, he graduated from Marietta College with a Bachelor’s degree in graphic design. Read his full bio by clicking here.

Q: Do you have a favorite memory, or something that sticks out in your mind, from your work with Project GRAD Akron?

A: A memory that constantly runs through my head was when I worked at Bridge 2 Kindergarten. I had so much fun creating relationships with the youngsters. It was like going back in time reliving my childhood, making new friends, and seeing how valuable simple things are in life.

Q: Anything you wish the community knew about Project GRAD Akron?

A: I wish the community knew the resources and opportunities that Project GRAD Akron has to offer. With how difficult things can be at times, it’s great to know that there are dedicated people who consistently work towards helping others thrive.

Q: What is your favorite pastime in Akron/Summit County? (for example - favorite

place to eat, favorite place to shop, work out, etc.)

A: A few places you can find me would be Maple Valley Library, a recreation center, or Applebees. I adore utilizing technology and other resources at the library. Besides that, I’m probably playing sports, working out, or eating.

Q: What is something you’re looking forward to (work or personal)?

A: For work, I’m looking forward to hearing more about the experiences our seniors and college students have. I’m looking forward to traveling out of state and checking off some things on my bucket list.

Project GRAD Akron is the Lead Partner with the Akron Public Schools for the GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for  Undergraduate Programs) Partnership Grant. GEAR UP is a federal program through the U.S. Department of Education. At the time of the award, this was the third highest grant in the history of the Akron Public Schools. For the life of the grant, more than $7 million has been earmarked to support approximately 1,700 students, families, and schools with this program. Yvonne Culver of the Akron Public Schools and Jacqueline A. Silas-Butler of Project GRAD Akron are the Co-Directors of the grant. The University Partners are Kent State University, Stark State College, and The University of Akron.

During the 2021-2022 school year, Project GRAD Akron began working with 6th and 7th grade students from the selected schools. Under the terms of the grant, the students are followed for seven (7) years and receive a host of programs and services. Additionally, programs and services are provided for their parents/guardians and for the schools. The 2023-2024 school year marks the third year of the grant. We are pleased with the progress we are making and are continuing to implement strategies as we AIM HIGH for student success!

Together, we are excited to continue this important work and serving the amazing students of Akron Public Schools.