The Sankofa Bird Newsletter - Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter

The Sankofa Bird Newsletter
of
Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter School
4256 Paul Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 19124
Telephone #-215-288-2001
Volume5/Issue 1
Sankofa Freedom
Academy Charter
School
Leadership Team
Dr. Ayesha Imani, CEO
Bro. Isa Clark, COO
Baba Mwlimu Waset,
Principal
Mama Geraldine Newton,
Business Manager
Bro. Elisha Tigah,
Technology Coordinator
Sis. Nieka Brown,
Middle School Coordinator
Baba Norman Bayard,
Upper School Dean
Bro. Darrius Rowser
Middle School Dean
Bro. Maurice Patterson,
Lower School Dean
Dr. Kelli Sparrow Mickens,
Servant Leadership Coodinator
Tameka Thomas
Transition Coordinator
Dione Pride,
Executive Administrator
Transformation
September/October, 2013
Message from Dr. Mama:: “ Building from Our Core”
Well family, we did it! In
June we graduated the first
group of seniors from Sankofa
Freedom Academy Charter
School. It represented the completion of our first 9th-12th
grade cycle. It means that we
have laid a foundation as a
school, that we can build upon.
So far this year, we are hearing wonderful stories about how
our Nubians are doing in college. We are proud that all of
them were accepted in post two
or four year colleges, and over
100% of them are pursuing post
secondary education. We have
at least three Nubians who are
working here at Sankofa, parttime, as they pursue their post
secondary educational goals.
Now that we have graduated
our first class, we must turn our
attention to building an institution that will be around to
graduate their children. We
must build on our successes and
strengthen the areas that need
further development.
My hope is that when Nubia
2 graduates four years from
now, they will graduate from a
school that is known for its
service to the community, its
activism in issues of human
rights and environmentalism, its
commitment to cultural continuance, and, of course, its
excellence in scholarship.
years, we have laid a strong foundation
upon which to build a loving, caring
community that seeks to be agents of
change in the world. With the addition of our wonderful new students,
great teachers, and new administration
(all of whom will be featured in this
edition of the Sankofa Bird), we know
that a bright future awaits. Let’s embrace that future, and claim the success of our children and our school—
This year we look forward
to another first graduation. We
will graduate our first cohort of
students from our middle
school. The Nation of Ashanti
came to us in our first year as
the first Zulu. We hope that
many of them will choose to
stay and enter our school as
Kemet 2. We are already so
proud of them! They are a
proud nation of orators, musicians, keepers of the culture,
activists, and scholars. When I
think of Nubia, Ashanti, and all
of the nations of Sankofa, I am
Dr. Mama with Nubia’s 2013
optimistic about our future. I
Valedictorian, Sis. Emma Blackson
am excited that, in these four
Welcome Our New Principal, Baba Waset
We are so happy to welcome
to Sankofa, the new principal of
our high school, Baba Mwlimu
Waset. Baba Waset has
brought a wonderful new energy
to the Sankofa Upper School
family. Each day in morning
circle, you can find Baba Waset
playing the drums, calling us into
a new opportunity to learn and
grow as intellectual warriors and
servant leaders.
Baba Waset and Sankofa
seem made for one another.
Baba is known throughout Phila-
delphia’s cultural community as a
social activist, organizer, and cultural
worker. Among other organizations,
he is a member of ATAC (Avenging
the Ancestors Coalition).
After serving as a principal and a
vice-principal in the Camden School
District, as well as the CEO of a charter school in Philadelphia, Baba Waset
has come home to Sankofa. His mission is to lead our high school into
greater excellence in culture, scholarship, and community. Welcome
home, Baba Waset!
Farewell Nubia, Class of 2013
On June 12, 2013, the Mighty Nation of Nubia finished their
high school journey at Sankofa in fine style, with a Graduation at
the Seaport Museum. The parents, community members, political
officials, board members, and friends of Sankofa Freedom Academy came together for a glorious night, to pay tribute to our 39
seniors. Speeches were delivered by our valedictorian, Emma
Blackson, our Salutatorian, Erina White, and founder of the Quality Youth Education Collective, Antonio Dill Word. Our students
received over 2 million dollars in scholarship assistance. A beautiful dance was done by Erina and Briana Robinson-Wallace, and a
cadre of Nubian musicians, led by Bro. Dane, performed an original song, by Bro. Antonio and Sis. Erina, called, “Same You”. The
most touching part of graduation was to hear the messages that
were spoken about each individual Nubian. There were many
tears and laughs, but most of all there was pride.
End of the Year Senior Ceremonies and Celebrations
The ceremonies and celebrations that preceded
graduation, were many. After getting through
Senior Exhibition, the seniors celebrated at the
prom, had a Rites of Passage overnight gathering
and, two nights before graduation, participated in
the Rites of Passage transition ceremony, which is
called the Conferring of the Kente. It was at the
conferring, that each Nubian received the Kente
that was to be worn at graduation. They also received the numerous awards they had won, and
the medals earned for being ambassadors. During
the evening, each senior pledged to go out into
the world, taking some value, wisdom, or skill
they had learned at Sankofa. With the prom, the
conferring, graduation, and everything in between,
the Nubia finale will never be forgotten!
Volume5/Issue 1
Page 3
Welcome to the Freshman Class of 2017—Nubia II
Nubia II: Building for a Strong Future
Nubia started their Sankofa journey, like all high school classes do, with the Rites of Separation.
During the Rites of Separation, Nubia II reflected on their lives, and made decisions about what
they would leave in their childhood, and what they would bring forth into scholarship, leadership
and adulthood. One by one, they declared their intentions, and asked the permission of their facilitators and parents to go forth. On August 29, 2013, after successful completion of Rites of Separation activities, the Nubia II initiates proved themselves to be quite resourceful. Teambuilding exercises happened, rain or shine. No one in Nubia II complained, and when they did not have ponchos, they improvised with garbage bags. Nubia II has already shown itself to be a nation of
bright and beautiful servant leaders, who will, no doubt, leave their mark on Sankofa Freedom
Academy during the next four years.
(Photo and text by Sis. Dr. Kelli)
Thank you ,Sis. Dr. Kelli and Baba
Bayard, for all of your hard work in
preparing Nubia I, Kemet, Axum, Dagara, and now Nubia II. I would also
like to say Asante Sana to the Freshman team, for assisting Nubia II with
taking their first step in becoming
true Sankofa Freedom Academy servant leaders, and Intellectual Warriors!
Page 4
The Sankofa Bird Newsletter
Check Out Kemet, Sankofa’s New Seniors: Class of 2014
There are new student elders at
Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter
School: The bold, brilliant, beautiful,
intellectual warriors of Kemet are now
the leaders of the High School. Finally,
Nubia has graduated, and it’s now
Kemet’s chance to shine. Kemet is
known for setting its own traditions in
scholarship. You may remember the
first place victory that the brothers of
Kemet had in the Regional Black History Bowl at Lincoln University. Remember how Khaleef Alexander, Jalen
Price, Aboubacar Doukoure, and
Simeon Brown beat Masterman and
Mastery, as well as other schools from
all over the Delaware Valley. The
Nation of Kemet has also distinguished
itself by its athletes. Scholar athletes,
such as Jazzmaine Lancit, Drew Jones,
Rasheen Ladson, Anthony Dowling, just
to name a few, all belong to the Nation
of Kemet. The class also comprises
musicians and spoken word artists, such
as Taje Oliver and Michael Locket. It
really is an amazing class! Right now,
what is keeping Kemet most busy is the
arduous task of completing the requirements for Senior Exhibition. The beginning of Senior Exhibition is a time of
great introspection. On page 5, are two
samples of introspective writing from our
new seniors. In each essay, the student
is reflecting and sharing on topics about
which they are passionate. We know that
this year represents a long journey for our
seniors. We send them light and love on
their journey and expect that they will make
this a fabulous year.
Kemet listens to a college recruiter
from Central Penn University. During
the months of October and
November, Kemet scholars will
complete the college application
process.
Go Seniors!
Congratulations to the Senior
Exhibition Live Five!
Aboubacar Doukoure 1181
Nyeerah Long 979
Khaleef Alexander 898
Jazmear Ross 752
Aja Long 740
Back row:(Left to Right) Bro. Kahleef, Sis. Aja, Bro. Aboubacar,
Front Row (Left to Right) Sis. Jazzmear, Sis. Nyeerah
Volume5/Issue 1
Page 5
Helping by Selwyn A. Gabriel II
One day, while I was researching the requirements to get a high school diploma, I learned
that each student must have a certain amount of community service hours before they are allowed to
graduate. I was not particularly happy about the fact that I had to do community service. I had no
interest in doing any type of service. I said to myself “What has the community done for me?”, as I
tried to think of a way to get out of it. I thought of different excuses, and when I thought of a good
one, I took it to my principal. He wasn’t buying my excuses or explanations about why I couldn’t do
community service, so I gave up. I tried to talk to my mother, and she gave me less time than my principal did. When it was time to look for a place to do community service, my mom found a Christian
organization that was assembling Thanksgiving meals for low-income families. I was not thrilled, but I
had no choice in the matter.
When the day came, I got an attitude, and I decided that I wasn’t going to help. When I got
to the church where they were making the meals, I barely spoke to the pastor when he greeted me.
He could see that I was not a willing spirit, and he took me to the side to talk to me. He told a story
about a young boy who wore shoes with cardboard in the bottom, and barely had enough food to
eat. The boy’s mother had to work three jobs to provide for her three children. When Thanksgiving
Day came around, she couldn’t afford a big meal, so he had to go to his church for help. That young
boy was him. He then told me that when we put together meals, we are helping people feel normal.
He said, “We aren’t just handing out meals, we are handing out memories; we’re handing out a day
that children won’t forget.” After our talk I started to look at the work differently. In fact, community service did not even feel like work at all. I was simply doing my part to help those in need. It felt
good to know that I was making someone’s day. I was helping to make a memory; to change someone’s life for the better.
This really hit home. I started to think about what it would be like to not have any food for
Thanksgiving, or no toys for Christmas as a child. Those circumstances can be very detrimental to a
child’s happiness. There’s nothing sadder than a child that can’t smile. For a long time, I was selfish
and I was ignorant to the plight of those in poverty. I had not considered that maybe some people
need help, and I sure didn’t think to help them. Since experiencing the joy of helping others, I have
volunteered in the same program for the past three years, and I plan to do so this year as well.
BOA ME NA
ME MMOA WO
(Help me and let
me help you !)
Human Rights by Aboubacar Doukoure
Last year, I took a class named Global Interdependence. In this class, I learned about how humans are treated nationally and
globally, I learned how our actions affect third world countries. I also learned how we, in the United States, contribute to the lack of
balance in our resources. In addition to that, I learned that the UN has developed a human rights declaration which includes 30 articles, and America, along with many other countries, has agreed to this international bill. This declaration argues that things like housing, food, clean water, education and other things are actually human rights that everyone should have. What is ironic is that even
America does not implement these articles in their nation, especially not for people of color.
For my Senior Exhibition project and internship, it is my intention to work with organizations that focus on human rights,
and the exploitation perpetrated by first world countries. In exploring the plight of human rights in America, I hope to narrow down
my research question to a matter that will make a difference in the lives of African people on a global scale. This may tackle the issue
of why the UN’s bill of human rights is not being implemented. It may focus on the issue of human rights in America. I have not yet
decided, but no matter what, I am strongly committed to my topic and question.
Through a process of examination and strong research, I intend to craft a strong, and well developed, research question. As
a black man in America, I witness many of my brothers’ and sisters’ rights get violated. As a continental African, while I was in Senegal,
I witnessed children in hunger and children who did not have access to clean water. This is all in violation of their basic human rights.
These conditions have inspired me to become a human rights lawyer. Ultimately, my goal is to take the United States of America to
the UN for multiple violations of the UN Declaration of Human Rights.
(Universal Logo for Human Rights Campaign)
Page 6
The Sankofa Bird Newsletter
Winning Words from Baba Waset
My name is Baba Mwlimu Waset, and I am the new Upper
School principal at Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter School. I am
extremely excited to be a part of the Sankofa family, and I am enthusiastic about working with the children here. My goal is to ensure that
they are the best and the brightest that Sankofa Freedom Academy
Charter School has to offer. You should know that I am committed
to ensuring academic excellence in each and every student, so that
they ultimately become the intellectual warriors that we all know that
they are capable of becoming.
I hope that you will join me in working along side all of our staff,
so that we may begin to stave off the stereotypes that are so frequently labeled upon our children. Our children have greatness
within them, and thus it is our job to push them and discover that
greatness from within.
Many thanks to
all of the
parents,
students, and
staff who
contributed to
the family of
Isaiah Torian
Ford in their
time of need.
Kemet Seniors Show Sankofa Leadership and Love
Our entire community has
been mourning the lost of one
of our former students, Isaiah
Torian-Ford, who passed away
on Saturday, October 5.
The sudden death of Bro. Isaiah
especially impacted the nation
of Kemet. Bro. Isaiah started
his high school years with us at
Sankofa, as a member of Kemet. His sister, Alisha, was a
member of the Nation of Nubia. Thankfully, two seniors of
Kemet decided to do more
than mourn. Instead, Bro.
Simeon Brown and Bro. Aboubacar Doukoure took action.
- At SFACS we take pride in
teaching our students to be
servant leaders to each other,
and also to members of the
surrounding community. We
believe that it is important for
our children to understand that,
given certain conditions of our
society, there are things that
each individual can do to make
it better, and as a collective,
even greater things can be done.
The staff is extremely proud of
the seniors of Kemet, who lead
the drive through which we
raised over $1000, which was
presented to Isaiah’s family.
This act demonstrated love,
kindness and servitude. We
give thanks to the spirit of
Sankofa.
Join Upper School Fight Against Breast
Cancer
On Saturday, October 19,
servant leaders in the Upper School
joined thousands of families across
the Delaware Valley to lend a hand
in making strides against Breast
Cancer. Sankofa Freedom Academy, once again, happily joined
forces with others who walked in
the spirit of Umoja to advance
more and better research, so that
one day breast cancer will be a
distant memory.
essential question of freedom
involves exploring ways to help
our communities be healthier.
We hope that this month,
Breast Cancer Awareness
Month, you will make a contribution in the name of Sankofa
Freedom Academy. Although
the march is over on Saturday,
you can still donate all year long.
Please visit the Breast Cancer
website at:
This year’s effort ,especially, was http://komenphiladelphia.org/theled by the nation of Dagara, whose race/
Volume5/Issue 1
Page 7
Upper School Celebrates Students of the Month
NEA ONNIM
NO SUA A,
OHU
Here are the list of scholars:
Nubia II
Devohn Ward
Taliyah Barnes
Nijah Lewis
Mia Heredia
Yacob Hart
Bashir Matthews
Krissy Devine
Amar Harris
Rasheed Ross
Marquis Lawerance
"He who does not
know can know from
learning"
Dagara
Darrien Johnson
Sahir Chambers
Cassandra Boyd
Rasheeda Boelter
Jasmine Thomas
Jewel Allen-Washington
Breast Cancer Walk
Nubia II
Dagara
Axum
Kemet
Davon Ward
Taliyah Barnes
Nijah Lewis
Mia Heredia
Yacob Hart
Bahsir Matthews
Krissy Devine
Amar Harris
Rasheed Ross
Marquis Lawrence-Madison
Darrien Johnson
Sahir Chambers
Cassandra Boyd
Rasheeda Boelter
Jasmine Thomas
Jewel Allen-Washington
Jamil Williams
Damon Carr
Taleia Prince-Forrest
Carolyn Coleman
Justin Anson
Talia Nelson
Aminah Wilkinson
Tylia Ross
Rashid Young
Chai Holiday-Lawson
Malik Chambers
Zainabou Dabo
Jaylen Price
Egypt Shabazz
Siani Rojas
Shakiara Boston
Aboubacar Doukoure
Sakwon-Ali Epps
Simeon Browne
Calling All Upper School Parents: We Need One Another!
This year, for the first time, we are organizing an upper school parent group, to work on issues that relate specifically to the upper
school servant leaders. We want to be able to explore together the college consideration and selection process, as well as ways of
handling some of the social concerns that arise for our teenagers, such as relationship issues, substance abuse, depression, and career exploration. We know that being the parent of a teenager brings its own kind of stress and struggle. We invite you to join the
upper school Parent Support Circle. Meetings will be held on the second Tuesday of each month, during the time that we usually
hold our parent meetings. Parents will meet with our new principal, Baba Waset, and have the opportunity to take part in a wide
range of guest discussions and activities. If you are interested in providing leadership for the circle, please contact our new Executive Assistant, and Parent Involvement Coordinator, Sis. Dione Pride at 215-288-2001. Meetings of the Upper School Parent Circle
will be held at the Penn Street Campus. The next meeting will be on November 12th at 6:00. JOIN US!
Page 8
The Sankofa Bird Newsletter
Celebrate Learning in the Lovely Lower School: Students of the Month
K1- Taylor Williams
K2- Aszouri Chestnut
1A- Delaney Raines
1B- Harmonie Moreno
2A- Zaire White
2B- Reginald Joseph
3A- Bobby Hoyle
3B- Subour Nurrudin
4A- Alissa Johnson/ Jaoni Vaughn
4B- Kayla Harris
Reading Room- Derrick Precha
Art- Rakim Precha
Martial Arts- Kiara Harris
Music- Aaliyah Seriki
Resource Room- Selena Rogers
Spotlight on: Brother Moe's Lower School Leader- Jaden Gillis
Shout Out from Bro. Maurice Patterson,
Dean of the Lovely Lower School
I have a recognition!! For the month of September, I would like to
spotlight Brother Jaden Gillis. Jaden is a scholar that models appropriate Sankofa behavior, in and out of class. He is a scholar that I can
count on to assist with helping to beautify Harambee Hall, or even
show other scholars how they should be walking in line. This wonderful scholar does anything that is asked of him. He is also an
excellent classmate and friend, and he will help those around him stay
focused on the tasks they are performing. In addition to these great
things, Jaden has passed all of his Math and Literacy anchors so far
this school year. He is a model for what we expect from students at
Sankofa Freedom Academy.
Yourba Garden Off to a Fantastic, Terrific, Great Start!!!
Submitted by Mama Renee Butler
Yoruba Gardens, under the nurture of
Mama Renee and Sis. Lisa, is off to a great
start. They have already had a visiting
professor, made Yoruba clay pots, and
worked together to demonstrate the
principle of Umoja. You Go Yoruba!
(On the right: Jayde Blackman serves as
Yourba visiting professor. On the left:
Jeremiah Fetus, Lamar Guerra, Zahmir
Whiten, Sydney Campbell, and Jayde)
Volume5/Issue 1
Page 9
Songhai Washington (3-A): Getting the Philly Feeling!
Submitted by Sis. Loretta Robinson
This year, Songhai Washington (3A) will
explore Philadelphia, as they seek to answer their essential question of freedom
“How can I contribute to the Philadelphia
Narrative?”. Their journey began with a
study of the rich history of Philadelphia,
and an exploration of those great things
that their city is known for. As an assignment, scholars were asked to write a
letter to an imaginary person who would
like to move to Philadelphia from another
country. Scholars had to write a letter to
that person, persuading them to move
here, by informing them of all of the magnificent things about Philadelphia.
Rasheen Washington wrote the following:
Dear Amy,
There are many great things
in my city. We have a lot of places
to visit, such as the Liberty Bell, the
Philadelphia Art Museum, and the
Please Touch Museum. We are also
known for a lot of great foods, but
our most famous foods are our Philly
Cheesesteaks, Tastycakes, and soft
pretzels. Philadelphia has a rich history. Did you know that Philadelphia
was once the nations capital? Philadelphia is a great place to live!
Your Friend,
Rasheen Washington
Introducing “The Truth”: No One Has Swagger Like the New Staff of Sankofa
Sankofa is truly blessed with a dynamic new cadre of teachers, artists, scholars, activists, musicians, and awesome servant leaders.
The members of this year’s new staff cohort named themselves
The Truth. Their motto is, “Revealing Truth for the Transformation of Youth.” In their short time at Sankofa, they are already
transforming our institution, and making it a better place! Meet our
new staff members for school year 2013-2014!
Pictured on the Right: Bro. Goodman, Sis. Garner, Mama
Taliba, Sis. Fatima, Bro. Marvin
Pictured below:Left: Sis. Justin, Bro. Andre, Bro. Kashief,
Bro.Greg, Sis. Sonya, Sis. Yasmeen, Sis. Tawana
Picture below, right: Sis. Jen, Bro. Wells, Bro. Muhammad,
Bro. Ambikisye
Not pictured: Sis. Badger, Bro. Ngozi, Sis. Njemele,
Mama Nanyamka
Page 10
The Sankofa Bird Newsletter
Making It Happen In the Mighty Middle School
Our Trip to Briar Bush
By Jasmine Hunt from Dogon Colvin- Height
On September the 24th, the entire Dogon Nation
th
(5 Grade) went on a trip to Briar Bush Nation Center in
Abington, Pa. We went to Briar Bush for team building activities, problem solving and games. During our time at Briar
Bush, we had to work together with our fellow classmates.
One of the activities that we completed, was trying to move
two long green sticks that were held by two strings attached
to them. We had to find a way to walk all the way past a giant
tree together. My group solved this problem by yelling “Right,
left”. There was lots of Ujima (collective work and responsibility) on this trip. In addition to the stick walk, we did the
human knot and a blind fold game, where we had to find an
egg by listening to our classmate’s direction. We used Kujichagulia to get the job done. After all of the challenges were
done, we had lunch in the woods. We had a great time at
Briar Bush Nature Center.
Congratulations to the Mighty Middle School Perfect Attenders
Dogon (5A)
C'naa Battle
Nina Dailey
Zayda Flanagan
Martin Gillis
Jazmine Hunt
Alexus Jackson
Makhia Kenner
Tajmir McNear
Elijah Mitchell
Khadijah Nuruddin
Joseph SchoenMcculloug
Khalil Scott
Zyhnira Taylor
Ahmir Travers
Cheyenne Washington-Holiday
Isaiah Webb
Dwayne Wells
Shaniyah Whiten
Myya Ziegler
Ashanti (8A)
Lariq Byrd
Daameira Carr
Christian Colon
Nakera Daughtry
Martiyana Gillis
Muhammed Goode
Dogon 5B
Nadira Abdullah
Tiana Bing
Ibn-Mikale Danies
Tayonah DawsonTrenyce Harris
Mzyah Heck
Dennise KemmererJoshua Lubin
Daneisi Mejia
Nadira Moore
Alleya’h Murphy
Michael Price
Yazmeen Reynolds
Rodney Simms
Zyair Taylor
Devon ThomasMakayla Towns
Bambara (6A)
Tahirah Arter
Azirah Bowman
Kymirah Brown
Allen Daughtry
Eva Davis
Issa Fofana
Jayda Gill
Qyadir Hines
Damier Johnson
Devin Jones
David Lavine
Emanuel Lee
Keyvon Montague
Aarion Mouzon
Luis Padilla
Jaidah PetersonMiller
Nyree Shelton
Taijuan Smith
Michael Torrain
Khadijah Turner
Lei-Simone Johnson
Nyam Long
Nafeei Minor
Viviana Padilla
Cheyanna Peterson
Hruti Ra
Marayah Roher
Bambara 6B
Maryam BintShafeeq
Nasim Brown
Emani Gentry
Rashede Goosby
William Hedgebeth
III
Jamal Hunt
Shymir Ladson
Evelyn Luciano
Jadon Norris
Jesse Ramos
Michai Smith
Jayda Snyder
Danya Thomas
Marquan Thomas
Sean Thomas
Iyana Whiten
Jasmine Winchester
Kumasi Young
Fulani (7A)
Chamera Abdullah
Jeremy Braithwaite
Ian Chapelle
Ousamane Fofana
Savannah GaffneyGlenn
Jhanae Gieger
Amya Lewis
Unique Lowe
Alexandrea Montilus
Keolebogile More
Quadirah MorrisonThomas
Cion Rawls
Aniyah Shelton
Zakariyya Toomer
Anaya Whiten
Jonathan Word
Ashanti (8B)
Ruqiyyah Bint-Idris
Brianni Blume
Tyeana Cebollero
Tanylr Clark
Miya Ingram
Tamir Jackson
Fulani (7B)
Rajaa Bint-Idris
Nadira Brown
Alexandria Coates
Nigera Davis
Destiny Gregg
Nyzah Hayes
Fateen McFadden
Steven Mejia
Jada Patterson
Heaven Pickett
Alicia Purdy
Quintin Ross
Jaymes Savage
Donte Thomas
Khalil Turner
Tia Williams
Wharriniah Lee
Omar Long
Sierra Lumsden
Jada Mcleod
Tariq Mines
Tionna Redding
Volume5/Issue 1
Page 11
Congratulations to the Mighty Middle School Students of the Month
5th Grade SOM:(Front Row) Maeva Brea, Zhynira Taylor,
Khadijah Nuruddin, Fatoumata Sillah, Shaun Snyder
(BackRow) Dennise Kemmerer, Naja Lumsden, Jasmine Hunt,
Michael Hargrove, Joseph Schoen-McCullough
7th Grade SOM: (Front Row) Ousamane Fofana, Ian Chapelle,
Cion Rawls, Anaya Whiten
(Back Row) Unique Lowe, Aniyah Shelton, Jaymes Savage, Destiny
Gregg, Yusef Smith, Khalil Turner
6th Grade SOM: (Front Row) Jayda Gill, Rasa Watson,
Tahirah Arter, Issa Fofana
(Back Row) Devin Jones, Aaron Patterson, Jasmine Winchester, Maryam Bint-Shafeeq, Kumasi Young
8th grade SOM: (Front Row)Shy’erra Ladson, Gabriela
Morales, Carmen Williams, Mattieu Reina,
(Back Row) Andyanna
Smith, Lariq Byrd, James Turnage, Tariq Mines, Randy Lowe,
Sierra Lumsden, Amir Thomas, Daameira Carr
Submissions by: Sis. Brown, Middle School Coordinator and Bro. Darrius, Middle School Dean
Page 12
The Sankofa Bird Newsletter
We Speak Unity!
Submission by Sis. NaaAmerly Badger, Middle School English Facilitator
These are responses to a question on a student job application, which I gave to those scholars who wanted to have a classroom job: What is
Umoja? What does Umoja mean to you as a scholar? In what ways ill you demonstrate Umoja as a member of the Maatic Maintenance Staff?
Provide specific examples of ways you have exercised Umoja in your life. Students from the nation of Ashanti and Fulani
What Is Umoja by Miya Ingram
Ashanti Chaney
Umoja is having unity with ones self, peers, and people around them. Umoja means to me, that you can put aside everything, and get
together and help. For example, every time something tragic happens in America, do you think that PresidentObama just goes to fix
the problem by himself? No! He pulls together a group of his staff, and they ALL figure out the best plan. I plan to do this by pulling
everyone together and incorporating everyone’s ideas.
What Is Umoja by Rashae Rochester-Cottle
Ashanti Chaney
What is Umoja? Umoja is the demonstration of Unity. It is also the importance of being with family and community. As for
me being a scholar, Umoja, to me, means the representation of togetherness, which provides positive things and encouragement. I
will demonstrate Umoja as a member of the Maatic Maintenance Staff, by helping students develop educational growth, and being a
scholar, youth practice model, engaging our community, and much more.
Alternatively, being a youth practice model with this classroom would help me to gain more leadership of students. For
instance, I will try to motivate scholars who understand how to bring the classroom together to help one another. In other words, a
way I have shown Umoja was by doing my work, instead of fooling around in my class group. In fact, this gave the other students the
power of unity to change, and follow my lead in a good way.
The qualitiy I possess that makes me the most qualified applicant for the Executive Maatic Manager position, is leadership. I
make my own decisions, and I am never influenced by the words of others. Besides, I always desire independence and freedom from
others, such as scholars that I will be interfering with. Scholars must now how to be leaders for themselves as well as others. Even
more, since taking part in a serious position and relations with other applications, I’m willing to be rather serious, and not see the
hilarity others see.
Heshima is important for various reasons. Mostly, for being a manager, you would need to show Heshima, because you
have to have respect for yourself. Thus, I must respect staff members with careful listening, obedience, and self respect. Generally,
to be a manager, I would have to think like a manager by showing value towards staff members’ opinions without lack of respect. In
all honesty, I must show partnership in showing respect and manners to others, so they can lead off of it. Therefore, it will make us
and our classroom a much more pleasant environment for us all.
Write About Math Essay by Gabriela Morales
Fingernails grow at a rate of about 1.23 x 10 ² cm per day. If a person never
clips their fingernails, they would be approximately 58.3625 cm in 13 years.
How I got 58.3635 cm, was first putting 1.23 x 10 ² in simplest form, which
would be 0.0123. Then I would multiply 365 days by 13. I would do this because
it asks how long they would be in 13 years, and there are 365 days in 1 year, so
you want to find out how many days are in 13 years. When I multiplied 365 x
13, I got 4,745. This amount is an estimate, because there are leap years between the 13 years. After that, I multiplied 4,745 by 0.0123 because you need to
get the length of the fingernail so you multiply the rate of how long (0.0123) by
how much time there was altogether (4,475). When I did this I got 58.3635 cm.
This is how long your fingernails would be if they grew at a constant rate of 1.23
x 10 ² cm for 13 years.
Volume 1, Issue 1
Page 13
The Wazuri Word
We would like to thank all of the parents who attended the first
parents’ meeting on October 8th. We need to see even more of
your beautiful faces at the next meeting. Please keep in mind that
every great school has a great parent association. Sankofa Freedom
Academy is a wonderful institution ,that will become even better
with your support. If you are interested in becoming a Wazuri Parent Council officer, or classroom representative, you don’t want to
miss the November meeting. At the meeting on November 12 th, we
will be holding officer elections. If you would like to run for a Wazuri Parent Council position, please contact Sis. Dione Pride, at
(215) 288-2001 or [email protected]. We are anxious to get the parent group up and running, so that we can work together to make
Sankofa everything we want it to be.
“ It Takes A Village….”
Middle School Parents Math Empowerment Session
If you missed our October parents’ meeting here’s what you missed!!!!! A
Workshop for parents hosted by our 8th grade Math Teacher Bro. James, on how
to help your scholars with his/ her Math Homework. During this informative workshop, parents were taught strategies to use at home when helping their scholar
with math concepts for grade 5-8. They learned how to access the online text
book, and also visited some user friendly computer tutorial sites. There was a time
for questions and even a step by step demonstration of math skills. Parents and
students enjoyed refreshments and even got to complete a parent survey to help
plan future meetings. An informative time was had by all in attendance . We hope
to see you at our next meeting. Check the school announcements for upcoming
Wazuri/Parent Meetings.
The Circus Is Coming! The Circus Is Coming!
Hotep Family!
It’s that time of year again! We
are inviting the entire school to
the Universoul Circus, on Friday, November 15. Every year,
Sankofa Freedom Academy
Charter School makes its annual pilgrimage to Universoul
Circus. It always feels a little
crazy, a little chaotic, and a bit
overwhelming for the teachers.
Yet, we keep doing it because
at the end of the day it is so
much FUN!
Tickets are $16. Please purchase
your tickets right away. All payments must be submitted by
Wednesday, October 23rd.
Payments are only accepted in
the Main Office at Paul street,
from 8:00 am-9:00 am and from
3:15—4:00 pm. Receipts will be
given to everyone who makes a
payment. PLEASE SAVE YOUR
RECEIPT! Everyone must provide a receipt on the day of the
trip. Don’t wait, buy your ticket
asap so that we can see you at
the Universoul Circus!
BUSINESS NAME
Building Intergenerational Communities of Scholarship, Culture, and Activism
Upcoming Events: Calendar
Oct 18— 1st grade trip to Snipes Farms
Oct. 21 - Interim Reports and PSSA results mailed to families
Oct 21— Board of Trustees Meeting
Oct. 23
Sankofa Freedom Academy
Charter School
4256 Paul Street
Philadelphia, Pa. 19124
Phone: 215-288-2001
Fax: 215-288-2099
Early Dismissal Wednesday
Oct 23– Final Day for Circus Payment
Oct. 31
After School Tutoring begins for selected students
Nov 5
School Closed for Professional Development / Election Day
Nov. 12—Parent Meeting / Elections for Wazuri Officers
Sankofa Freedom Academy Board of Trustees Meetings 2013—2014
Board Meetings are held every third Monday at 6:00 p.m. Meeting dates are as follows :
We’re on the web:
Www.sfacs.us
September 16, 2013
October 21, 2013
November 18, 2013
December 16, 2013
January 27, 2014
February 24, 2014
March 17, 2014
April 21, 2014
May 19, 2014
June 16, 2014
Ashe’ - SpotlightAshe’
On:
Walter
(1932-2013)
-Spotlight
on Luis MunozLomax
Rivera
“We who believe
in freedom
shall not rest
until it comes!”
….Ella Baker
This week Philadelphia is morning the death of a
great philanthropist, physician, entrepreneur, and
civic leader, Dr. Walter P. Lomax, Jr. Born in 1932, Dr.
Lomax grew a small medical practice into a multi-site group
practice, consisting of over 20 well-trained physicians. He
opened is practice in the 1950’s, and quickly became one of
the leading African American doctors in the city. He was
even the physician for Dr. Martin Luther King, whenever Dr.
King came to Philadelphia. Eventually, Dr. Walter Lomax
took on the task of providing healthcare in Philadelphia prisons. This led Lomax to found Correctional Healthcare Solutions, which provided prison healthcare in many other cities
and states. With the financial success of that venture, Dr.
Lomax’s company branched out into real estate and technology firms, and in 2002 he purchased the radio station,
WURD-AM. Throughout his life, Dr. Lomax was known for
the many causes for which he provided financial support. He was especially generous in providing
funding for ventures that effected the lives of youth in the African American community. He was
known for being compassionate and caring. Bro. Isa has especially fond memories of Dr. Lomax, as it
was Dr. Lomax’s project, Say Yes to Health, that provided Bro. Isa with his first opportunity to work
with young people. Dr. Lomax believed in working toward freedom, wellness, and prosperity for his
people. In 1994, Dr. Lomax paid homage to his ancestors by purchasing the plantation where his
great grandmother was enslaved, in King William County, Virginia. Recently, the Lincoln University
(Pennsylvania) honored him with a Ph.D. in science for his various contributions to health facilities.
Lomax is a former Trustee of La Salle University, and The Philadelphia Orchestra (emeritus). A memorial service will be held next month for Dr. Lomax, at the Kimmel Center. Dr. Walter Lomax was
truly a “Big Tree”. Through his generosity and his many accomplishments, he provided shade for
many.
(Adapted from an article by Mike Dunn , http://www. Philadephia.cbslocal.com/2013/10/10/)
“Working to Restore Excellence in Scholarship, Culture, and Community”
Sankofa Freedom Academy Charter School Board of Trustees
Steve Blackburn, President
Oshunbunmi Samuels, Secretary
Rev. Glen Shepherd, Treasurer
Jennifer Powell-Folks, Member
Nadine McNeil, Parent Representative
Toni Winston, Staff Representative
“One Heart, One Love, One Earth, One People”
Harambee!!