Ignite Academy is a wrap-around support program for students between Grade 2 and 7 and their families. This program is unique for its flexibility and adaptability to its participants. As needs change and as concerns arise, they can be addressed quickly and efficiently. A perfect example of this approach can be found in the story of a family supported by Ignite Academy this year.
A Leamington family with two parents and three young children found themselves in a challenging situation, struggling with unemployment, academic difficulties for the children, and food insecurity. To address these pressing issues, the family was introduced to the Ignite Academy program, which offers comprehensive support for families in need.
Upon their enrollment, the Ignite Academy team swiftly took action to address the family’s immediate needs. The children were registered for the program, where they would receive academic support and enrichment activities. To help the father secure employment, he was connected with a career assistance program designed to provide job search and placement support. With the children now part of the Ignite program, a tailored plan was created to enhance their educational experience and overall well-being. Recognizing the need for consistent nourishment, the Ignite team arranged for food to be provided at the school office so that the children could have lunch. Additionally, the children were signed up to receive hot meals at school on a weekly basis, ensuring they had access to nutritious food regularly.
To further support their academic growth, Ignite staff engaged with the children’s teachers to gather detailed feedback on their classroom performance. Based on this feedback, personalized programming was developed for each child. The dedicated staff worked with the children daily, focusing on improving their academic skills and social interactions. As a result, the children began to show significant progress in both their academic performance and their social connections. In addition to the regular programming, Ignite Academy ensured the children could participate fully in camp experiences during school breaks, including PA days, March Break, and Winter Break without any additional stress on the family financially or managing childcare during the workweek.
The support from Ignite Academy led to notable improvements for the family. The children began reading more at home, completing their homework with greater diligence, and showing overall academic progress. With the father now employed full-time, the family no longer faced food insecurity, allowing them to concentrate more on academics and mental health. The stability provided by the program has made a significant difference in their lives, creating a more secure and hopeful future for the family.
To learn more about Ignite Academy visit weareunited.com/igniteacademy
Last updated on September 6, 2024