First Week Wins at J.A. Fair K-8 Preparatory School

Mary Ruth Taylor, First Year AmeriCorps Member September 16, 2025

The start of a new school year means new routines, new classrooms, and plenty of opportunities to connect. At J.A. Fair K8 Preparatory School, nearly 780 students in grades K–8 began their year with excitement and curiosity—and �鶹��Ƶ AmeriCorps members were there to greet them.

Serving a diverse student body where 68% identify as Black/African American, 20% are English learners, and 86% come from low-income households, J.A. Fair’s classrooms reflect both the strengths and challenges of the community.

For Mary Ruth Taylor, a first-year Student Success Coach, the first weeks were about finding her place in the fast-paced elementary classrooms:

“During my team’s first two weeks, we rotated between five different kindergarten and first-grade classrooms. I worried I might not connect with students if things were moving so fast. But I had no reason to worry—the rotation quickly proved to be incredibly rewarding! Being able to greet the kids by name in the morning, in the halls, or at recess feels like a crucial part of whole school support that is setting us up early for success.”

These early wins—learning names, building trust, and supporting multiple teachers—are small steps that lay the groundwork for growth throughout the year. At J.A. Fair, the first week showed just how powerful a connection can be when community and commitment come together.

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First Week Wins at J.A. Fair K-8 Preparatory School

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