DETROIT – March is Reading Month, and the Local 4 team has been “Going 4 It” at schools across the Metro Detroit area all month long.
On Thursday (March 20) afternoon, we had the pleasure of reading to an adorable group of first graders at MacDowell Preparatory Academy on Detroit’s northwest side.
Thank you to their teachers, Ms. M and Ms. Bell, and the school superintendent, Dr. Brian Banks, for having us.
Along with photographer Justin, who won over the kids with his tech gadgets, we were impressed by the students’ joy and enthusiasm for their school and teachers.
Dr. Brian Banks, the superintendent of MacDowell Preparatory Academy, shared insights about the school’s transformation.
“Three years ago, our daily attendance was 77%. There were times when we only had 77% of our scholars present. Now, we are at roughly 95-96% daily. Of our academics, only 18% could read and write or be proficient in reading and math.
Only 18%. We just got our NWEA scores, and our growth index scores is in the 50% tile. And so, to see the growth that our scholars have made and, to see the trajectory that they are on is impressive.
But also addressing the needs and all of the barriers that our scholars face. Our scholars come to school with a myriad of issues, and so we had to address their attendance issues by some not having clean clothes.
So, we had to buy a washer and dryer. Some didn’t have transportation, so we had to go out and buy a school bus. Hire a bus driver and so we are meeting the needs of our families.
Some didn’t have access to food, so we’ve done a number of partnerships just like we’ve done with the Rhonda Walker Foundation or with Gleaners and Eastern Market. So, ensure our families have what they need, and our scholars have what they need to be successful.
But we also provide them with breakfast, lunch, and an evening snack. So we’ve created a culture where the scholars love being here, and they show us because they show up every day.”
Superintendent of MacDowell Preparatory Academy Dr. Brian Banks
After the school bell rang, we officially launched the Empowering Her Success Academy, an after-school program of the Rhonda Walker Foundation in partnership with automaker Stellantis for girls in grades three through seven.
“This program is really to help empower you to be the best you can be, see that potential in yourself, and help guide you and show you how to reach your highest goals,” said Rhonda Walker.
Seventh grader Alonna Daniels expressed her hopes for the program: “I want to grow in confidence and improve my academic skills.”
MacDowell Preparatory Academy has created a supportive community.
Parent Toilise Fowler said, “When I first met Dr. Banks, I felt instantly that he cared about my girls' education.”
“When we look at the needs of our scholars, our female scholars, mentorship is important.
But not just internships, good internships and programs that would build out their capacity and expand their knowledge of what’s to come in their life.
It all goes along with our mission here. That’s to instill skill and the will of our scholars so they could succeed in life and in college.”
Superintendent of MacDowell Preparatory Academy Dr. Brian Banks
The improvements made under Dr. Banks’ leadership, with the support of the board and teachers, have fostered a positive family atmosphere where kids love to come to school.
Dr. Banks noted that some students even cry on Fridays because they miss being at school over the weekend.
