05/28/2024
From Kymberly P. Mayes- (long post)
To the Friends and Family of SWAJA:
Thank you for your interest in and support of SWAJA during my seven year tenure as Principal/Teacher. Support has so many looks, so please understand that I do mean however you were able to give it.
The 2023-24 academic year brought our school heavy challenges that can be summarized under the umbrellas of loss and change. In life, we can expect that to occur. It was just our turn.
However, in my experience, new life often follows close behind such tumultuous times. The same is true at SWAJA. Effective June 30, I will no longer be in my current role at this beloved institution. My transition journey begins now. Therefore, you won't be hearing from me much any longer.
Before I go, I need to publicly thank the leadership and members of the Dallas Project Church. The years would not have been what they were without your presence, prayers, guidance, encouragement, expertise, volunteerism, donations, and other various forms of support. A special thanks to the chairman and members of the school board for their close partnership and governance.
During this 2023-24 school year, there were some heroes in the story that kept us on the path forward. I would be remiss not to mention them by name:
Danielle Byrd: True to her nature, Danielle made sure that everyone was acknowledged during their season of loss and/or change. She taught the children about grief, and the ministry of presence, even if you are at a distance. Because of the amount of loss our community experienced, she virtually started a card ministry with the students. Additionally, she personally crafted memory books for each departing faculty member. Danielle pours out abundantly, consistently. She picked up/dropped off students, documented all of the student's special moments, was the loving face at the door, stayed later/longer, acquired extra classes to teach, and shared needed laughter, food, and love. I am sincerely asking that you all love on her in my absence.
Ronald Thibodeaux: Mr. T, as I call him, served as business manager. I would share with him what I thought the plan should be, and he prayed over it, and made everything work the best way it could. Mr. T believed in practicing trust in God, moving forward with a solid work ethic, and that you should aim to remain as calm as possible. His hugs and smiles watered the campus. The impact he has had on SWAJA spans generations now. 'Thank you' will never come close to capturing what he deserves.
Jasmon Paxton: I believe in feeding children, and 'Uncle Jas" made that happen. The ability to cook food is truly a gift. You could not only taste food, but warmth and care. He never half stepped it with the kids. He wanted the food to have a certain look, consistency, and taste. He would also serve as a well of encouragement for students and adults alike. He would share in games, school programs, and be the extra pair of hands needed whenever called. In short, he did far more than cook.
Jess Garland: The back half of the school year is where SWAJA's grief journey really took off. Simultaneously, the back half of the school year is where Jess's gifting was being highlighted! She was being recognized on a big scale for the vastly important work that she does at Swan Strings. She unselfishly took SWAJA on that ride with her. From CBS News to Entreprenista 2023 to a documentary, Jess shared her platform with us. The guitar music that was shared at the end of year program was her effort on display. Some of you got to see first hand how her giftedness is impacting our students. In her words, "access is important." Jess, the access you (Kierra, KJ, Kate, Emsy) gave us to guitar and ukulele lessons served as the Music Therapy we did not know we were going to need. Please support Jess in her work at Swan Strings. She offers lessons in various parts of the city for all ages.
Charles Mayes: The easiest way to capture his importance is to say that he filled in everywhere. There really is no other way to describe it. The school was only able to sustain operations with consistency because of his willingness to do, imagine, create, and more. He did this all seven years.
To Zina Martin (House of Zina), Chelita McDuffie (That's Sew Creative ), Excellerate Learning Academy, and Vickie Johnson: your partnerships were invaluable to the success of this school year. The students thrived because of what you gave.
In closing, I am requesting that you, the reader, would kindly pray for the continued success of this school, its staff, and the students and families it serves. Those of you who are able, look out for information on how you can further support the ministry, vision, and efforts of the incoming team. From experience, I can say a strong community can make all the difference.
Please pardon our dust as we climb to Higher Heights.
With sincere appreciation,
Mrs. Z
