Rankin Elementary School (Tupelo School District) with West Jackson Street Baptist Church

Rankin Elementary School (Tupelo Public School District) 

Partner: West Jackson Street Baptist Church 

Students impacted: 700
Volunteers: 60
Duration of partnership: 4 years 

This partnership began in spring 2015 as an effort to support teachers and has blossomed over the last three years to include support for school-wide improvement. West Jackson volunteers offer academic assistance and tutors as well as support for students’ social, mental and physical needs. For example, when a student was seriously injured and paralyzed, West Jackson donated items for a silent auction, staffed a fundraiser night, and sold student-crafted pottery to raise money for a wheelchair-accessible van so the student would have transportation to and from school.

Activities:

  • West Jackson Reading Buddies program
  • Arts in the Park and Fall Festival
  • Teacher appreciation meals, gift bags and gift cards
  • Christmas party for teachers

Impacts:

  • 78.6% of students proficient or above grade level in reading
  • 98.1% average daily attendance for students (up 5%)
  • 98.6% ADA for teachers (up 2.5%)