March Newsletter
Program Highlights
Ralph Ellison JKL Students Learn CPR & First Aid
The students at our Ralph Ellison JKL program received First Aid and CPR training from local retired firefighters in Chicago. This invaluable opportunity for our students allowed them to learn life-saving skills that can make a difference in emergencies. This hands-on training equipped the students with the knowledge and confidence to administer basic first aid and perform CPR in a variety of situations. Through interactive scenarios and practice, students gained the skills to respond effectively to injuries, choking, cardiac arrest, and other medical emergencies. Completing this program not only enhances our students’ readiness in emergency situations but also fosters a sense of responsibility and leadership, preparing them to be proactive and caring members of their communities.
JKL Students Go the Distance
The students of Juan Navarro High School laced up their running shoes once again to take on the annual Austin Marathon, demonstrating their dedication, perseverance, and team spirit. Determined to improve upon their 2024 race times, returning JKL students trained hard, pushing their limits both physically and mentally.
This year, the tradition grew even stronger as each returning student invited a new JKL participant to join them in the challenge. Together, they not only crossed the finish line but also built endurance, resilience, and camaraderie along the way. Beyond logging miles, the students focused on strengthening their stamina, boosting their mental well-being, and embracing the JKL philosophy of living active, healthy lives. Their commitment to self-improvement and supporting one another made this marathon an unforgettable experience, proving that with determination and teamwork, anything is possible!
Student Spotlight
Meet Lendy, a great, warm-hearted student shining bright in the JKL program at Sunset High School. Over the past few years in the program, our fitness component has allowed her to be consistently active with workouts. “If you don’t have access to tools for working out, you have no motivation. In JKL, I can be amongst my peers and be encouraged to work out, so having access to fun workouts has been the best.” There have been many moments of gratitude for the resources Lendy has embraced. The value of giving back to her community and seeing local families happy by helping with food drives has resonated with Lendy. Taking advantage of community service allowed her to attend a Texas Ranger World Series game while making an impact by collecting recyclable items throughout the venue with her JKL peers.
“Lendy Morales is a Senior with a kind heart. She is willing to help fellow students and participates in events that support our community. She serves as a great example to other JKL participants”- JKL Instructor, Major Simpson.
It is our honor to support students like Lendy, who have remained committed to the JKL program since the beginning of her high school career!
WISE Scholarship Update
We want to introduce you to our newest WISE Scholars: Henry Orantes (left), Jacob Roman (middle), and Jacob Aldrete (right). All have been working hard to meet all program requirements and have participated in numerous events that have helped them prepare for their future, such as a Critical Thinking panel discussion at Cal Tech University. We are excited to highlight each one of our scholars through our upcoming newsletters.
Camila’s Corner: Holy Grail Green Smoothie
Go green and power up this month with the Holy Grail Green Smoothie. It’s packed with spinach, chia seeds, and all the good stuff to keep you feeling lucky all day long. Click here for the full recipe!
JKL Swag of the Month
Tuned up & timeless, our JKL short-sleeve mechanic shirt is back! Durable, classic, and always in style…gear up now! Click here to purchase.