Greetings Alliance Friends: GOOD NEWS IN 2020 - really? Yes! There is good news to report! Much was accomplished during these strange and unprecedented times for students and teachers. And more importantly, the vital role played by you, our community of education supporters, who made these things possible. As 2020 draws to a close I want to highlight a few of our top achievements: - Our initial community-wide Scholarship CHALLENGE raised $43,000 and awarded 41 students (all AVID alumni) monies for Fall 2020 - the most ever!
- Reaching Out Grants totaling $126,850 were awarded to nine innovative programs designed to enhance the educational experience of students, whether remote or in person.
- $15,000 in emergency funds for remote learning was allocated to purchase books for each New Lebanon and Hamilton Avenue student as well as art and school supplies which were distributed district-wide in coordination with PTAC.
- The Developing Artist launched its website and interviewed many studio artists, creating content accessible to students at home.
- In April, 84 Tuning In To Music students pivoted to virtual weekly lessons with their CT School of Music teachers and continue in this format today.
- Alliance Board and Advisory Council attended Diversity Training offered by YWCA Greenwich in show of our support for an equitable and inclusive community.
- Student organized and led Diversity Panel began a community conversation on educational experiences/opportunities in the public schools. (Read more below.)
- Summer Virtual Reality/Artificial Reality project through Unbound Innovations grant employed AVID students and helped teachers gain additional experience in this cutting edge educational technology.
- AVID SUCCESS initiative launched with a dynamic volunteer team and AVID educator partnerships beginning with Virtual Year-End graduation celebrations.
- 10th Annual REIMAGINED Turkey Trot raised nearly $50,000 - thank you!
Have a safe and very HAPPY HOLIDAY SEASON! |