In the wake of remote connectivity becoming the nation-wide norm, it is more important than ever that our students have the resources they need to thrive. Thanks to our generous partners at School Smart KC and the Hall Family Foundation, over 90 UICS families from St. Mark’s Center and Metro Center schools received iPads, broadband service, and tech support for their students to continue their educational paths during the summer and as they transition to their next school. This access serves as a proactive step toward disrupting a gap in achievement for students with limited access to technology at home, which has become a more demonstrable chasm during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 One parent shared what this opportunity meant for her family. Essence, mother of UICS-Metro Center student DeJaun, spoke of how important this resource would be in keeping her son connected with his teachers throughout the summer while also allowing them time at home to continue working on other developmental readiness skills before the start of a new school year. “Having our own tablet for my son will allow for each of my children to continue learning and growing on their own devices,” Essence remarked. Students will be able to interact with their teachers throughout the week via creative online lesson plans, live Zoom classroom sessions, and other additional resources that have been amplified in recent months to meet all UICS families where they are. “The curriculum and family atmosphere is what brought us to UICS. I knew I wanted more for my son than what many daycare options can provide, and from the moment we met with our Family Advocate, we knew we had become part of a family that would help us out in any way they could.”

We’re proud to be part of bringing together strong families with community advocates that care about the long-term success of our students.