APPLE Purposeful Impact Proposal

PURPOSEFUL

IMPACT FOR african-american students of oak park & ri v er forest High School

table of CONTENTS

3 Letter from A.P.P.L.E. 4 A.P.P.L.E. Mission and Vision 5 A.P.P.L.E. S.E.E.D. Scholarship Program 6 Honoring Mr. LeAndrew Wade 5 A.P.P.L.E. 2023-2024 Highlights 11 Parent Engagement 12 A.P.P.L.E. Board Roles

Dear Esteemed District 200 Board of Education, Dr. Greg Johnson, Principal Parker, and Clerk of the Board Ms. Lisa Evans: As another incredible year draws to a close, we want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude to our parent community for your unwavering support and dedication to our mission. Your commitment to our organization has been instrumental in driving positive change in our school. Many highlights of this past year were the invaluable work of connecting with the African American student body through community outreach, cultural immersion, advocacy, and conflict resolution.

A.P.P.L.E. participated in the Oak Park Community Fourth of July Parade and reconnected with the first African American student in Advanced Placement classes. We also learned of the passing of our founder, scholar Dr. Gerald Clay on November 4, 2022. He was also the co-founder of the community forum, Black-White Dialogues. Dr. Clay also served in both the U.S. Army and the U.S. Navy where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Dr. Clay is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ret. Judge Evelyn Clay (nee Brown), his daughter Tracy-Elizabeth Clay, his son, Dr. Lamont G. Clay (Jill) and three grandchildren Hannah (19), Isaac (15), and Harper (9). His Scholarship is available annually to OPRFHS students.

The District 200 Board of Education-appointed Culture Climate and Behavior Committee (CCB) discussions highlighted the ongoing need for improvement and emphasized the critical role of parent engagement in fostering a safer, more equitable, and inclusive environment for all students. In 2023, new A.P.P.L.E. Board Member, Scholarship Chair, Harvard Graduate, and OPRFHS alum Ambria Jones joined the CCB, contributing to conversations on BEP revisions, school safety, and Security Chief turnover.

In February, Autumn Brown, Savannah Sehn, Riley Bazillion (Black Leaders Union President), and Mena Olins were the inaugural student group to go on the A.P.P.L.E. sponsored trip to Japan for Spring Break. They spent eleven days visiting Tokyo, Osaka, Miyajima Island, Hiroshima, the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, and Yokohama. The students participated in a Traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony and Taiko Drum Lesson. Big thank you to the Crystal Fund, the OPRFHS Alumni Association, and the Tribenski Fund for help making this possible.

A.P.P.L.E. is the recipient of the 2024 Future Philanthropists Program Grant for its A.P.P.L.E. S.E.E.D. Cultivating Leadership and Global Citizenship Program. This year-long leadership program will award a student $2000 towards global travel with A.P.P.L.E. during spring break of 2025. Applications will open on Monday, August 26, 2024.

A.P.P.L.E. honored Mr. LeAndrew Wade at the A.P.P.L.E. S.E.E.D. Scholarship Dinner. The beloved Mr. Wade has taught hundreds of OPRF students how to drive, how to make better decisions, and promoted leadership. He was also the sponsor for the Black Leaders Union. His smile, warmth, and presence among the students, staff, and parents will be missed.

A.P.P.L.E. awarded Ashley Brown (Loyola Marymount) and Khalil Nichols (Northern Michigan) the $500 A.P.P.L.E. S.E.E.D. Scholarship. We raised another $850 to award Nyla Williams and Payton Lowenthal-Wojcik.

Looking ahead to the 2024-2025 school year, A.P.P.L.E. is dedicated to continuing collaborative efforts with our OPRFHS family and OPRF community stakeholders, to make African American families feel welcome. We aim to raise awareness of mental health services, address the achievement gap, increase positive parent engagement, and secure sponsors and financial support for clubs and activities that enhance the African-American student experience.

In closing, we extend our deepest appreciation for your continued partnership and support. Together, we will continue to make a lasting impact and create a brighter future for all.

Humbly Submitted, Melanie McQueen, Co-President, Telicia Moore-Walker, Co-President, and Ambria Jones, Scholarship Chair African American Parents for Purposeful Leadership In Education

A.P.P.L.E. pillars PARENT EMPOWERMENT A.P.P.L.E. supports parents in navigating the school system and advocates on the families behalf, in solving racial and academic problems within the school with an emphasis on the best interest for the student STUDENT ADVOCACY A.P.P.L.E. advocates for students experiencing problems of any kind in OPRFHS ensuring a fair and equitable process and resolution.

EQUITY A.P.P.L.E. is an equity partner with OPRFHS. We identify opportunities to eradicate discrimination, harm, and barriers that keep ALL students from an equitable education.

POLICY A.P.P.L.E. works in tandem with OPRFHS to provide parents with a voice for long-term and short-term policy, behavior plans, process development and implementation of daily activities, culture, climate, and behavior of ALL students' campus life.

A.P.P.L.E. Mission & VISION Our mission is to empower AfricanAmerican students at OPRFHS to thrive.

As a resource-rich organization, we serve as advocates for students and their families, identifying and removing barriers to success. We provide information on scholarships and opportunities for advancement, while also advocating for equity and fairness in consequences. As a parent organization for all, we take pride in fostering a positive high school experience through purposeful leadership in education.

To cultivate an inclusive and empowering educational environment at OPRFHS where African-American students excel academically, socially, and personally. We envision a future where all students have equitable access to resources and opportunities, where barriers to success are dismantled, and where every student is supported to reach their full potential.

Through collaborative efforts and purposeful leadership, we strive to create a vibrant and nurturing community where every student feels valued, respected, and inspired to achieve greatness.

A.P.P.L.E. S.E.E.D. SCHOLARSHIP 2024 PROGRAM 7:00

WELCOME Telicia Moore-Walker

7:25

KEYNOTE SPEAKER Ambria Jones, Harvard Graduate, and OPRF Alum, Class of 2014

7:05

7:35

A.P.P.L.E.

A.P.P.L.E. S.E.E.D.

HIGHLIGHTS Melanie McQueen

SCHOLARSHIP

7:15

7:55

A.P.P.L.E. SERVICE

CLOSING REMARKS

AWARD Honoring

7:58

Mr. LeAndrew Wade

PRESENTATION

DINNER SERVED

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2024!

Honoring

Mr. LeAndrew Wade a distinguished educator with over 15 years of experience, has made a profound impact throughout his career. Beginning as a High School Counselor at Dwight D. Eisenhower High School in Blue Island, Illinois, he demonstrated a passion for guiding and supporting students through their academic and personal journeys.

Transitioning into the corporate world, Mr. Wade served as a Salesman at IBM in Chicago, where he honed his skills in communication, negotiation, and relationship building. His time at IBM provided invaluable experience that he later brought back to the education sector.

Returning to the field of education, Mr. Wade took on roles as a College Administrator and Financial Aid Director at prestigious institutions such as North Central College, Lewis University, and Roosevelt University. In these positions, he played a pivotal role in shaping the educational experiences of countless students, ensuring access to financial resources and opportunities for success.

His diverse professional background also includes a stint at Nicor Gas, where he worked in Human Resources and Labor Relations. Here, he gained insights into organizational dynamics and employee relations, skills that further enriched his approach to education and leadership.

Finally, Mr. Wade concluded his illustrious career as a teacher at OPRFHS, where he brought his wealth of experience and expertise to the classroom. As a teacher, mentor, and role model, he inspired generations of students to reach for their dreams, instilling in them a love for learning and a belief in their own potential.

Throughout his career, Mr. Wade, a fine member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated, has exemplified dedication, compassion, and excellence in everything he does.

His impact extends far beyond the classroom, leaving a lasting legacy of empowerment and inspiration for all who have had the privilege of knowing him.

The 2023 IBSE Report Card indicates that Oak Park and River Forest High School has enrollment of 644 AfricanAmerican students. This number indicates that there are between 644 - 1,288 parents and/or guardians.

Less than 1% (6.4 - 12.8) of African-American parents are engaged with Oak Park and River Forest High School through leadership and volunteerism

parent engagement

Parent presence and engagement, historically, is more likely for students facing infractions such as truancy, or suspension due to fighting or use of illegal substances, etc, or academic issues rather than for a holistic relationship. This initial introduction to Oak Park and River Forest High School also sends a message to these families of not belonging or being welcomed.

Parent engagement is critical in this climate and environment for African-American student success.

Optimum engagement for the high school academic ecosystem includes...

The higher the degree of parental involvement, the higher the impact on the child's academic achievement.

Parental involvement not only enhances academic performance, but it also has a positive influence on student attitude and behavior. A parent's interest and encouragement in a child's education can positively affect the child's attitude toward school, classroom conduct, self-esteem, absenteeism, and motivation.

parent involvement There are many ways to give your time to OPRFHS. A.P.P.L.E. advocates African-American parents and their students' enrichment and experience, APPLAUSE supports the performing arts which includes band, choir, orchestra, theatre, and dance. Parents for Student Success is a parent support organization working with high school staff to create a climate of academic and social excellence for all students. The Huskie Booster Club is a not-for-profit organization comprising of parents and community members, organized to support and celebrate student academics, activities, arts and athletics at OPRFHS. The Community Council encourages community and parent awareness and understanding of school issues and needs.

A.P.P.L.E. ACCOMPLISHMENTS

2024 EDUCATIONAL TRIP TO JAPAN 2024 FUTURE PHILANTHROPISTS PROGRAM GRANT

$8500 IN SCHOLARSHIPS 2022 OPRFCF COMMUNITY GRANT

15 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS 88 RESOURCE NIGHTS

The Value of a Parent A.P.P.L.E. EVENTS & VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Parent time and talent are priceless. Parental figures include mothers, fathers, grandparents, guardians and caregivers. We recognize the common barriers to volunteering or attending events, such as conflicting schedules, childcare, time commitment, etc. Our space is inclusive and welcoming to the AfricanAmerican community of our school. We value your presence and all are welcome.

Tier I: I just want to stay informed Like us on Facebook @OPRFHSAPPLE and join our mailing list by visiting our website www.oprfhsapple.org. Make a goal to follow us.

Tier II: I have some flexibility A.P.P.L.E. Resource Nights are every 1st Tueday of the month except for January and June, in the 2nd floor staff cafe. The meetings begin at 7pm and end at 8pm. Dinner is served during special events. Make a goal to attend at least two.

Sept - Welcome Back Mixer Oct - Aim High Night Nov - College Funding Workshop Dec - IEP/504 Plan Resource Night

Feb - FAFSA & Scholarship Workshop Mar - Report on School Safety Apr - School Board Report May - Scholarship Award Dinner

Tier III: I'm looking to network and meet other parents Feel more engaged without feeling like you have another job by being part of the fun stuff. Make a goal to add all of the events to your calender. Attend or volunteer to help make the event successful.

Aim High Night - great for Divine 9 Greeks and Ivy League graduates Good Vibes Only Reggae Night - great for reggae fans Volunteer Appreciation BBQ - great for party planners and cooks Backyard Meet and Greet - great for hostesses with the mostess!

Balling Out Fundraiser - great for dads who still got it on the b-ball court Huskie Steppers Fundraiser - great for High Fashion and Steppers Spades Tournament - great for good players and bad players

Tier IV: I'm looking to make an impact A commitment to evoke change would be to serve on the A.P.P.L.E. Board.

Make a goal to chat with a current board member and scan the QR code to fill an open seat.

#hu skiep ride A.P.P.L.E. Board Roles Co-President – Melanie McQueen and Telicia Moore-Walker The Co-President of AP.P.L.E. plays a pivotal role in advancing the organization's mission and vision.

Responsibilities include overseeing all aspects of the A.P.P.L.E. body, serving as the official spokesperson, managing calendar and meeting planning, and nurturing resource relationships.

Vice President – Open The Vice-President contributes to the formulation of long-term plans, addresses parental concerns and school issues, and actively encourages parent involvement and engagement in organizational activities.

Secretary - Open The Secretary diligently records meeting minutes, presents previous meeting minutes for approval, handles A.P.P.L.E. correspondence and emails, prepares meeting agendas, schedules speakers, and maintains updates on the A.P.P.L.E. FB Page and website.

Fundraising & Spirit Wear Chair - Open The Fundraising Chair leads fundraising efforts, coordinates fundraising events, and recruits volunteers as required.

This role is crucial in generating funds to support the operational needs of A.P.P.L.E., fostering donor relationships, and identifying potential grant opportunities.

A.P.P.L.E. S.E.E.D. Scholarship Committee Chair - Ambria Jones The Scholarship Committee Chair oversees the administration of the A.P.P.L.E. S.E.E.D. SCHOLARSHIP, including creating the application, establishing requirements, promoting application deadlines, and reviewing submissions alongside A.P.P.L.E. officers. This role aims to raise $5000 annually for the scholarship fund.

A.P.P.L.E. Community Liaison – Open The A.P.P.L.E. Community Liaison serves as the link between A.P.P.L.E. and the OPRF community. Responsibilities include staying informed about community involvement, representing A.P.P.L.E. at community meetings, and providing feedback to the organization.

Student Representative - (4) Open OPRFHS students, ideally one per class, are sought to serve as Student Representatives. They advocate for their peers, address concerns, seek solutions to obstacles, and share positive news within the student body.

Digital Engagement Coordinator - Open The Digital Engagement Coordinator manages A.P.P.L.E.'s online presence and interactions across digital platforms.

Responsibilities include overseeing social media channels, creating engaging content, interacting with followers, and implementing strategies to enhance online engagement and reach.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We want to thank our sponsors and donors that make the A.P.P.L.E. S.E.E.D. Scholarship possible.

Sources: A.P.P.L.E. Contemporary Issues in Education Research vol. 10 #3 Illinois State Board of Education Report Card NAACP ACT-SO OPERATION SNOWBALL, INC Positive Action

AFRICAN AMERICAN PARENTS FOR PURPOSEFUL LEADERSHIP IN EDUCATION 501C3 201 N Scoville OAK PARK IL 60302 WWW.OPRFHSAPPLE.ORG OPRFHSAPPLE@GMAIL.COM OPRFHSAPPLE

708-420-3923 OPRFHS Activities OPRFHS Behavioral Education Plan OPRFHS Board of Education Culture Climate and Behavior Committee OPRFHS Board of Education Racial Equity Policy OPRFHS School Profile 2021-2022 The Wednesday Journal

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