More than hopes and dreams: JA Academy

Daniel’s growth while in the JA Academy has been monumental. To go from a student who didn’t go out of his way to avoid trouble, to a student who is respected by his peers and sitting at the top of his class is no small feat.

As the oldest child, his determination to change the narrative for his family pushed him to get his head in the game and commit to becoming successful. The comradery and culture of JA Academy has helped to open his eyes to the opportunities that exist beyond the classroom walls, and has given him the skills and support to actual act on those opportunities.

Daniel’s sense of pride in the person he is becoming, and the responsibility he has to lead the way for his family and peers is an inspiration to us all.

Hear more of his story here.

Just the beginning: JA Academy

Octavious’s story is marked by triumphs and tribulations that make up many students’ lives – but his journey is far from over.

JA Academy ignited a hunger for learning and success in Octavious that he hadn’t previously experienced. His classes and teachers were engaging with him, and he began to see the value of education and creating a path for himself.

In the midst of this forward progress, life outside of school became a bigger challenge than he imagined, and balancing the two began to put his future in question.

Hear more about how JA Academy helped keep Octavious on track, and support him through it all:

Rising above expectations : JA Academy

Apollo’s motivation to join JA Academy was fueled by the influence of his grandfather – a successful businessman who created a sustainable platform for himself and his family members to thrive.

But when Apollo shared his interest of attending Banneker High School, the reactions he got were far from motivating or encouraging.

Apollo’s willingness to try something new and different exemplifies his entrepreneurial spirit and drive to succeed. After taking that risk, he found that the hesitations his friends and family had about Banneker, and the JA Academy in particular, were overpowered by the culture of success that he became a part of.

Hear Apollo and his classmates’ stories below.