A digital publication of Mindful Awareness Academy for Children
MAAC Villagers Respond to Call for Action!
(Clockwise from left, Cyndi Mayer, Dr. La'Tesha Sampson, and Tanya Isler-Horne.)
Weeks ago, we sent out an SOS to our community of MAAC supporters, citing a need for additional funding for our Summer College Readiness Boot Camp. And did our community respond!
MAAC board member Tanya Isler-Horne donated $1250, which was matched by her employer, Netflix, at 200 percent. MAAC villager Dr. La'Tesha Sampson donated $250 as a full-day sponsor, and MAAC consultant Cyndi Mayer donated $125 as a half-day sponsor. Additionally, Mindful Breath Foundation pledged $1,500 to sponsor six students.
"MAAC is expecting its largest turnout for our Summer Boot Camp, and the costs for facility use and meals exceeded last year's budget. Our community responded in the most amazing way," said Andrea Smith-Morgan, MAAC executive director. "Our supporters are responsible for helping our most vulnerable youth prepare for college and build vital tools and confidence for their future. Thank you all for helping make these opportunities possible!"
MAAC Scholar Cassidy Thomas: Determination + Balance = Success
Every MAAC scholar has a unique story. And to hear some of their stories, you are left marveling at what these scholars have overcome and achieved. Cassidy Thomas of Montclair represents the best of MAAC, for her determination, her achievements, and perhaps most of all, her caring spirit that seeks to make a difference in the world.
"I worked 2 part-time jobs while also maintaining over a 4.0 GPA and participating in extracurricular activities (lacrosse, dance company, and National Honor Society)," Cassidy explains of her high school experience. "Sometimes it was hard to balance all of them and make sure that I was putting the same effort into all of them. Over time, I found a flow and schedule that worked for me."
"Another challenge was the honors-level Probability and Statistics class I took senior year. Math has never been my strong suit, but I decided to challenge myself. Although it was very challenging and I often had to give up my off-campus lunch hour to go get extra help, I feel that it has prepared me for college and furthered my work ethic."
Cassidy will attend Penn State University this fall. "My major is psychology, but I am open to exploring more about myself and different career paths that would fit me best. I would love to be in a career where I can help people that are often misrepresented, or looked over. I am interested in studying abroad and reaching people all over the world."
In her free time, Cassidy likes staying active. "I love walking in Verona Park, spending time with my friends and family, and watching movies. I’m passionate about making sure people feel included, loved, and valued," she adds. Looking forward, she says, "I’m interested in trying a new sport in college; I’m thinking tennis!
She also recounts her positive experience with MAAC. "MAAC has helped me grow in so many aspects of my life. The college prep course taught me how to be vulnerable and share aspects of my life that could be highlighted to make an excellent college essay. The summer boot camp helped me grow by showing me that patience is key. I had many drafts of my college essay, and sometimes it became frustrating when I would reach a roadblock. The boot camp and support around me showed me that there is light at the end of the tunnel. Through MAAC, I became a tutor to a 6th grade student. Every week I would take on a new challenge with him and try to help my best with his homework. We would have fun, while also trying to get work done, which was rewarding."
"I will remember all the support each of us in the MAAC program gave to each other. Whenever one got accepted into a college, we would support that person. Having a community alongside you during the process, and now seeing the outcome, is very uplifting. We were all in the same boat and now all succeeding."
Cassidy's advice to younger scholars: "Be intentional with your school work, what activities you chose to partake in, and who you spend your time with."
Summer Boot Camp Hosts Largest Cohort Yet
In just a few weeks, MAAC will kick off its sixth annual Summer College Preparation Boot Camp and open its doors to nearly 30 high school students—its largest cohort to date.
"This program is beyond impactful. When you hear the success stories of scholars like Cassidy Thomas (featured above), the significance of this program is clear—we're teaching valuable skills, building confidence, and providing a network of support that lasts long after boot camp ends," said Andrea Smith-Morgan.
MAAC has been working tirelessly to secure funding, guest speakers, staff, and students who will benefit from this program, held in two 2-week sessions. "This is a major undertaking, and we've got an enthusiastic team of teachers, speakers, volunteers, and interns ready to help these scholars find their voice and prepare for college success!"
To date, this year's boot camp attendees come from:
* University High School, Newark
* East Orange STEM Academy High School
* Marion P Thomas Charter School, Newark
* Science Park High School, Newark
* Newark School of Data Science and IT
* South Amboy High School
* Teaneck High School
Limited spots remain, and scholarships are available to students receiving free or reduced lunch. Transportation is required to Montclair State University. For more information on MAAC's Summer Boot Camp, please click here.
MAAC Board Members
Yanira Amadeo LeShae Daniel Eleanor Gil-Kashiwabara * Tanya Isler-Horne
Ramel Meekins Julian Pinnix-Odrick Nadine Verna * Tamara Williams
Sent to: patty@themaac.org
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Mindful Awareness Academy for Children (MAAC), PO BOX 338, Montclair, NJ 07042, United States
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