Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Dreamers Tour USF (Tampa, FL.)

Our Dreamers participated in our annual end of year college tour on July 26 and 27th.  This year we spent two days in Tampa, FL. to visit the University of South Flordia.  As always, I was very impressed with the attention each dreamer gave to the campus personel, taking detailed notes and asking questions.  The Dreamers were very satisfied with the buffett style lunch (thanks Chef Charles) and our student guide did a wonderful job of presenting her campus.  At the conclusion of the tour, the Dreamers spent the remainder of the day at the hotel swimming pool or lounging in their rooms until dinner time.  After everyone enjoyed a long and peaceful nights sleep (if you consider 2 hours long and peaceful), the group headed south towards St. Petersburg to visit the Salvador Dali Museum and Exhibit.  There, the Dreamers were taken on a guided tour that discussed many of Dali's most prominent pieces.  The drive to Miami ( a quick 5 hours) was smooth and more importantly, each parent was patiently waiting as we arrived back.  It was the perfect conclussion to another academic year.  Our Dreamers are now entering their 10th and 11th grade years.  We are ever so close to graduation days in 2015 and 2016. 


ELL

Summer Academy 2013

During our annual IHAD Summer Academy,  our rising 10th and 11th graders (and one senior Jamee :-)) spent 20 days on the MDC Wolfson campus participating in ACT Math, ACT Language Strategies, and Reading/Vocabulary sessions.  In addition, all of our Dreamers who wanted to, were given paid apprenticeships.  This allowed them an opportunity to learn while they earn!!  Finally, we capped off our academy with an overnight trip to Tampa, FL. and the University of South Florida.  There, we were taken on a guided tour of the campus by current USF staff and students.  As always, our Dreamers were very attentive, taking copious notes and asking great questions.  On top of all that, we even had time to stop in St. Petersburg on the way back to Miami and visit the Salvador Dali Museum.  Special Thanks to Kaleena Waters our outgoing VISTA, what can I say, You are absolutely amazing!  Thanks to our dedicated IHAD Summer Staff: Mr. Major, Mr. Boldon, and Mrs. Richardson for keeping our Dreamers focused.  Thanks to MDC Wolfson Staff (especially Josh Young, Tamika Ramos, and Tom Albano.  Thanks to The Children's Trust, without your continued support, we would truely be lost.  Most of All, THANKS to the incredibly devoted Dreamers and Parents who through it all (even the rain) make time, NOT EXCUSES.. See you Aug. 19th.



Monday, February 11, 2013

IHAD Events: Dec., Jan., Feb.

Here is a review of some of the events, activities, and overall happenings from December 2012 until today.

 December is normally a short enrichment month due to the two week winter break.  However, we were able to squeeze in a field trip to enjoy lunch and  a movie.  The Dreamers with appropriate conduct grades were invited to see: The Hobbit an Unexpected Journey at the Sunset AMC theatres and then have burgers and fries at: The Shake Shack.

As the kids returned from Winter Break in January, IHAD Overtown began planning for our annual MLK Day of Service event.  January 19th was a "Day On" as Dreamers reported to West Perrine Park joining hundreds of students, citizens, and agencies assist with a beautification projet.  Dreamers swept the park for litter, helped plant, repainted, and spend the day doing something for someone else.

As we enter the month of February, Dreamers have already attended a college seminar at MDC's School of Justice and are preparing for our upcoming Men's College Basketball game (MDC vs. Brevard) field trip.
ELL