Fuzionz Magazine and TV Summer Issue | Page 24

volves positioning Jackson Education Support as a preferred educational service provider of personalized literacy, math, and science support for elementary, secondary, and higher education students.

Q: What has your biggest challenge been since starting the program?

A: Living in the poorest state within these United States is an indicator that most families have limited funds to dedicate to educational services. Whereas assistance is available to some, there are many learners who cannot access services at the time learning challenges arise. Timing is everything. Young learners who do not receive the support they need in a timely manner become parents unequipped to support the next generation, and the cycle perpetuates. I believe that access to one-on-one, personalized educational support in literacy, math, and science has potential to end this cycle for many. My challenge as an educator and private business owner: reaching learners who need my services most due to financial limitations. Because I’m in the business of developing solutions and supporting the educational goals of learners of all ages, a program that offers free one-on-one support to learners from disadvantaged backgrounds is in the works. As with all philanthropic efforts, funding is essential. I am seeking opportunities to overcome this challenge.

Q: What have you seen within the education system that needs improvement on and how do you think your program can and has helped?

A: In Mississippi, the average classroom boasts a sixteen-to-one, student-to-teacher ratio. I believe that the educators in my community do a great job, and I believe that the parents in my community truly want the best for their children. The education system is designed to meet the needs of the majority. This is great for

the majority; with this statement, I am not referring to race, ethnicity, religion, or income. Instead, I’m referring to test scores, learning style, learning ability, and express-ability. I would like to see the education community become more accepting of variety, more willing to change as oppose to advocating for change. We’re moving in this direction as programs like Universal Design for Learning offers strategies to educators on how to support all sixteen students in each of their classes. Jackson Education Support exists to grow with learners by capitalizing on their strengths. Clients having weak writing skills that enjoy math experience lessons that leverage math knowledge to build writing skills. Classroom educators and some parents are trained to do this, but time restrictions sabotage their efforts. JE serves as the scaffold by complementing instruction.

Q: Please share with us one of your favorite quotes or scriptures. Why is it your favorite?

A: The following quote reminds me of the importance of my decisions. It reminds me to be sure to influence positive change. “Education is the most powerful weapon one can use to change the world.” –Nelson Mandela

Q: Where can readers find out more about your program?

A: Jackson Education Support is currently located in Flowood, MS. Business cards are available in local libraries, coffee shops, bookstores, schools, colleges, and universities. Marketing materials are also accessible at local Christian-based organizations. Potential clients and collaborators are encouraged to like the Jackson Education Support Facebook Page (www.facebook.com/JacksonEducationSupport) and follow the