Aldine ISD and HOPE Worldwide Celebrate Second Year of Mentor Program; SPARK Academy

Aldine ISD’s Family and Community Engagement (FACE) Department is in its second year of a partnership with HOPE Worldwide. FACE and HOPE Worldwide partnered together this fall to create SPARK Academy, which is a social-emotional based program, to build resilience in students aged 5-12.

Spark Academy is a volunteer mentor program that aims to teach students how to handle life’s stresses and setbacks, while also progressing through those struggles. The program includes fun activities, and was based at Caraway Elementary. For the second year of this endeavor, sessions were held each Saturday morning during the month of October. It was free for all students who participated. In addition, all the volunteers received training and approval to work with students.

“It is heartwarming to see the kids and volunteers interact with one another,” said Caraway Elementary principal, Kory Jessie. “Sometimes they are playing soccer, other times they may be working with arts and crafts, but the entire time they are smiling!”

The sessions were provided to the students during both the spring and fall. Approximately 40 students participated in the Spark Academy, while 30 volunteers gave up their time to assist and mentor students.

FACE seeks to bring resources and assistance to Aldine ISD families. The partnership formed with HOPE Worldwide is just another example of FACE’s commitment to providing worthwhile programs to the Aldine community. To learn more about the Family and Community Engagement department, visit their website here.