The Educational Development committee plans and implements programs to impact the lives of youth throughout our service area by inspiring, motivating, and supporting their aspirations and achievements. We seek to influence and inspire students to excel academically while balancing a well-rounded social life.
Program offerings include Delta Academy, Delta G.E.M.S., E.M.B.O.D.I., college tours, STEAMFEST, annual school supply drives, and more.
All programs offer opportunities for participants to develop and enhance their skills in the following areas:
- Academic Excellence
- Leadership and Self-Esteem
- Community Service
- Health and Wellness
Kimberlynn Weston
National Initiatives
Delta Academy
SM-LAC’s Delta Academy rolls out during the fall of each year and runs through May of the next year. This fantastic program is aimed at young girls in 6th-8th grade. The Academy was created out of an urgent sense that “bold action is needed to save our young females from the perils of academic failure, low self-esteem, and crippled futures.”
Delta GEMS
Delta GEMS was created to “catch the dreams” of African-American girls ages 14-18. Delta GEMS provides the framework to actualize those dreams through the performance of specific tasks that develop a “CAN DO” attitude. The Delta GEMS framework is composed of five major components (Scholarship, Sisterhood, Show Me the Money, Service, and Infinitely Complete), forming a road map for college and career planning.
EMBODI
EMBODI is tailored for African American young men ages 13-17. EMBODI was created out of an urgent sense that, “bold action is needed to save our young males from the perils of academic failure, low self-esteem, and crippled futures.” Our program focuses on workshops to assist the young men reach their fullest potential educationally, socially, and emotionally.
SM-LAC Signature Programs
STEAMFEST
STEAMFEST is an annual event designed for middle and high school students interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math! Activities are organized by grade level so students can have the best experience at STEAMFEST. The event features science and technology guests, swag bags containing STEAM kits, and a variety of opportunities for students to view presentations and experiments.
