101 Women of Hope Project Makes A Difference In D.C. Schools

1 year ago

Capitol volunteers step in the help America’s students

The crisis on education seems to be never-ending in America. Whether it’s the shortage of teachers in urban public schools, the recent news that student loans will be doubling for many (thanks to the U.S. Senate), or the lack of opportunities afforded some students, education has become - and continues to be - a huge issue in the United States.

Kevin Hallums, Middle School Dean of Students at Washington Latin Public Charter School, is hoping to make a change in the lives of young students in the District of Columbia with his program 101 Women of Hope.

More than 150 women and men will assemble at D.C.’s Ron Brown Middle School today, May 11, for the 101 Women of Hope community service initiative, a 1-day event created to promote mentorship, volunteerism and school rehabilitation. This year’s effort marks the third consecutive 101 Women of Hope event, and falls on the heels of the D.C. Public School’s 5-year plan for higher-achieving public schools and students. The 101 Women of Hope and 101 Men of Hope programs are part of the Hope 101 Project.

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“As an educator, I saw a need for my students to be introduced to a positive role model,” Hallums explained to Loop 21. “I also knew that many of my friends, young professionals, were looking for an outlet to give back to the community where they grew up.”

Out of the nearly 1 million students who drop out of high school every year, almost 1,200 of them are from the District of Columbia, according to a study done by the American Graduate series. Students across the country are dropping out at rapid rates due to their surroundings, lack of positive influences, or no motivation to stay in school.

“There’s many essential things that a public school system needs to better itself,” Darla Bunting, a D.C. third grade literacy teacher, told Loop 21. “Such as strong leadership, meaningful curriculum, tailored professional development, leadership development, character education, extracurricular activities, parental and community involvement just to name a few.”