The Johnny S. Newman, Jr. Foundation was established in 1999. Since its inception, the foundation”s mission has been to help children in underserved communities develop the knowledge, skills and behaviors they need to succeed in life by enhancing their educational, cultural and athletic experiences.
The Foundation, in partnership with Danville Public Schools, has developed twin programs: “Pearls and Chucks” (for girls) and “Ties and Kicks” (for boys) to aid in combating chronic absenteeism and increased discipline issues that are leading to catastrophic learning loss and growing achievement gaps in the elementary schools.
This weekly after-school program, aimed at providing a safe and exciting space for fourth grade students, will focus on building self-assured children, teaching skills to deescalate problems, and instilling confidence by engaging their hands and minds with a creative mix of interactive activities that span multiple subjects.
The programs will enhance socialization while exposing the students to events and activities designed to expand their worldview, incite their intellectual curiosity, forge relationships, and strengthen leadership skills. The goal is to create a pathway to close achievement gaps, increase attendance levels, decrease discipline issues, and encourage excitement about learning.
Properly resourced learning environments ensure students are equipped to succeed.
A quality education is the gateway to opportunity, and students cannot achieve their potential without it.
You can support equitable learning environments in underserved schools through the Johnny Newman Foundation.