Francene DePrez
Contributing writer
This summer, pre-kindergarten through 5th grade students have had the unique opportunity of participating in “Summer Adventures in Learning”, an enrichment program that is presented free of charge and directed by Dr. G. Arcolia Jenkins. Older students can also serve as teaching assistants and mentors.
Dr. Jenkins says that she is grateful for the high quality of educational experiences that have taken place; for the dedicated and committed parents, volunteers, mentors, and facilitators. It has been a wonderful adventure for all of the children that participated. Dr. Jenkins is blessed to be working with and for children.
Jefferson Railway and Wetlands Foundation in one of the many donors that support SAIL – now in its 9th year. SAIL is a Christian based learning program, that includes improving reading, writing and mathematics.
On June 23, 2022, about 50 children, mentors and teachers were treated to a ride on the Historic Jefferson Railway including a stop at the Diamond Don Gator Pit for the alligator feeding. There were seven gators anxiously waiting for their dinner! Diamond Don Rainey says “he always looks forward to this summer event to give the kids an opportunity to see nature, hear some Jefferson history aboard the train, and spend some time outdoors”.
This year, the children had the opportunity to pan for gemstones and to try their hand at breaking pinatas filled with candy. The field trip included hot dog lunch; and a special visit from Darla Upton’s huge tortoise. He was hungry and the kids enjoyed feeding him.
Special guest, Mary Ayala, with Jefferson Police Department, came to speak about seat belt safety and how important it is for the youngsters to be in the correct booster seats; and to always keep their belts fastened. She brought some teddy bears to give away to students who could give the correct answers to her questions. Ayala is always a big hit with kids and adults, alike!
Dr. Jenkins says “that the experiences by this group of children will lead them to great futures”. One child said “I learned that you can be anything you can be, anything rich or poor. I also learned to dream big.”
During the summer, students receive instruction on a variety of skills ranging from etiquette, fine arts, liberal arts and citizenship, with the goal of improving a child’s academic performance. Students fill their “Big Book” of adventures with their memories and experiences from the summer, to take home when the school sessions end.
Dr. Arcolia Jenkins is a native of Jefferson, Texas. Her family has lived in the area for nine generations. It was easy for her to identify with students who have a need for activities between summer school closing and opening for the new school year, because she has been a working parent.