Left-right: Ron Hill, Mentor and Hope Dealer; Brad Young, FCPS and IBM Board Member; Dr. Linda Chambers, Director, FCPS Special Education; Jeneen Stewart, FCPS Achievement Specialist; Aje Hill, IBM Founder and Executive Director; Jamontrez Williams, IBM Mentor and Hope Dealer; Megan McMahon, IBM Mentor and Hope Dealer; Dana Falls, Director, FCPS Student Services; Branden McCallister, IBM Mentor and Hope Dealer; Kelly Moran, IBM Mentor and Hope Dealer
Frederick County Public Schools signed a partnership agreement with the I Believe in Me organization.
The primary objective of this partnership is to provide support for students and families who may benefit from extended learning opportunities, mentoring and access to resources.
Founded in 2016 by Aje Hill, I Believe in Me is a non-profit organization in Frederick that focuses on the growth and development of youth between the ages of six and 16.
“We are super excited to become a formal partner with Frederick County Public Schools,” said Hill, who is the group’s executive director. “This partnership will allow our organization and staff yet another opportunity to meet students directly where they are. Through this partnership we can support teachers, students and their families”
I Believe in Me operates an after-school program offering math and reading support, a mentor program, financial education, hygiene and nutritional guidance, community outreach via volunteerism and self-esteem and character development.
“What I love about I Believe in Me is their teamwork and commitment to doing whatever it takes with other Frederick community members for our youth,” said Dr. Linda Chambers, FCPS director of Special Education. “FCPS is proud and excited to partner as “Hope Dealers” together with Aje Hill and his team of mentors. This is a magical opportunity for our teachers, students and families.” Hope Dealers are organizational mentors, employees and board members.
“I am so proud of what Aje and I Believe in Me are doing to help at risk kids; I am thrilled that FCPS is partnering with him to spread more hope,” said Brad Young, president of the Board of Education of Frederick County.
*Businesses interested in partnering with the school system beyond offering staff discounts are encouraged to contact Community Engagement Coordinator, Tiana Haile, 301-696-6902, tiana.haile@fcps.org.
Those who wish to offer staff discounts should visit: https://www.perkspot.com/merchants/#contact