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The start of the school year at Jacksonville Elementary School (JES) has been filled with energy, growth, and connection for our �鶹��Ƶ Little Rock AmeriCorps Members. With an enrollment of nearly 750 students and an average class size of 20, JES is a vibrant learning community where building strong relationships from the very beginning is key to success.

For Kimora Miller, serving as a first-year Student Success Coach is a milestone in itself. At just 18, she moved from Douglasville, Georgia, to Jacksonville, Arkansas, secured her own apartment and car, and began pursuing her interest in coaching youth sports. “I see all of this as proof of how far I’ve come in a short time—and I’m excited for the wins still ahead,” Kimora shared. With the support of her Impact Manager, she has already started connecting with middle school basketball and football coaches in the community—bringing her closer to discovering her next step in life.

Kenya Kennedy, also a first-year Student Success Coach, found her wins in the classroom. From being paired with her hoped-for partner teachers to supporting small groups of kindergarten students in practicing number writing, Kenya’s week was full of moments of connection. “It’s been a great start, and I’m excited for what’s ahead!” she said.

JES reflects the resilience and diversity of the Jacksonville community. With a student-teacher ratio of about 18:1 and a strong commitment to supporting students of all backgrounds—including English learners, military-connected families, and those receiving free or reduced-price lunch—it is a school where every relationship matters.

Our AmeriCorps Members are already helping to strengthen those relationships in classrooms, hallways, and beyond. Whether it’s offering encouragement during small group learning or pursuing passions that connect back to the school community, their first week shows the impact of service in action.

At Jacksonville Elementary, the year is off to a powerful start—and we’re just getting warmed up.