Jaydah Jones effuses energy and enthusiasm when she speaks. The BASD recognized her at the regular school board meeting March 21, for her contribution to initiating the Black Excellence and Joy Club at Freedom HS. Jones is a 10th grader and the first president of this club. The club kicked off its debut by featuring Black Excellence and Joy month during Black History Month in February.

Jones saw the need to focus on the success and joy in being a black student. With her peers, Jones presented her ideas to to administration and was given the green light to form this club. Jones expressed the hope that this initial club will develop into more of the same; “locally, countywide, statewide, nationally and even world wide.“

The groups purpose is for students to come together and share their life experiences in a positive, affirming venue. Jones pointed out, “The group focus is on achievements, and personal pride as a person of color in the spaces they exist in.”

The board also recognized the Giant food market on Easton Avenue and its manager Laureen Hallowell for supporting the Giant Feeding School Kids Program. A check was presented to BASD for $18,949.53 from its “round up at the register” program.

Another recognition by the board was the elementary students from the Fountain Hill Lighthouse Team and Lighthouse Leadership. The school is assembling a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) school store.. It will have fidgets, stressballs and other behavioral aids.