Inside AJC

Whimsy and Wild Things

May 23, 2025

In Ms. E’s first grade classroom, creativity and hands-on exploration are part of everyday life. This quarter, students took on a special multi-phase project: designing and building their own imaginary animals using reused and recycled materials. They began by brainstorming, then sculpted with clay, and then—guided by Ms. E and classroom volunteers—brought their creatures to life. They even wrote artist statements to explain their creations. The project concluded with a gallery walk, where guests (teachers and classmates) could admire the students’ work and read their reflections. The pride and imagination on display were a beautiful reminder of the magic that happens when young minds are given the encouragement to bring their ideas to life. SOPHIA 2025 by Graezlyn “Gigi” C. Materials Used: PVC pipe, fabric, wood, paint sticks, shell, gears from a clock, cotton, hot glue, screw, sewing needles, sandpaper, drill Artist Statement: “I wanted to make something fancy. I

A Powerful Partnership: Minds in Motion

April 26, 2025

Last Thursday, our 4th graders took the stage at the Dominion Energy Center as part of Minds In Motion, a Richmond Ballet program that brings dance to students across the city. Alongside kids from several schools, AJC students delivered an energetic and uplifting performance that combined history, dance, and pure joy. Ms. Johnson’s class had been preparing all year, with visits from Minds In Motion coaches who led students through choreography and rhythm exercises each week. They showed a ton of courage up there on stage, and AJC families showed up big to celebrate their performers. The Minds in Motion program gives children an opportunity to discover talents, grow in confidence, connection, and a deeper understanding of themselves and each other. Last week, that growth was on full display. It was a real treat to witness kids stepping into their talent on stage and receiving a roar of encouragement from the crowd. Bravo to our 4th grade dancers,

Career Day

April 19, 2025

Our annual Career Day showed students they can aim high — the sky’s the limit! Big thanks to our Curriculum Director, Susan Barstow, for coordinating a fantastic morning of career exploration and to the volunteers who took time out of their busy lives to bring so many job opportunities to life. Students spent the morning rotating through 30-minute sessions, taking notes as they went along. Check out the fantastic variety of careers represented during this exciting day: Jeff Morley Biomedical Engineer Shaniya Liggins-Shaw Creative Film Director (and AJC Grad!) Fasharn Battle CPR and Patient Assistance Trainer Presenters brought their A-game with plenty of hands-on exploration, engaging discussions, and time for questions. Several remarked on how impressed they were by the students’ curiosity and thoughtful questions. “One of the 6th graders really blew me away—he had a design suggestion that was right on the mark. You could see the wheels turning, and I thought, this kid is meant to be an engineer.” -Jeff Morley

4th Annual Gordon Wallace Day of Giving

April 18, 2025

AJC middle school students and staff came together to honor Gordon Wallace, Jr.’s legacy through service, reflection, and community, celebrating the lasting impact he continues to have on our school and beyond.

Gilly, Class of ’21 & Henry, Class of ’23

April 4, 2025

Meet Gilly and Henry, AJC grads and current St. Christopher’s School students. Gilly, a senior, has secured a full ride to Radford University, where he’ll major in Criminal Justice next year. He will soon deliver his Senior Talk at an upcoming chapel service at St. Chris. Though nervous, he plans to speak from the heart about his self-growth journey, which he says began in 5th grade when he “started caring.” Meanwhile, Henry, a sophomore, is excelling in honors chemistry, Spanish, and computer science at St. Chris. He recently visited CNU through Jacob’s Ladder, showing his interest in college. (He’s one smart cookie, so he’ll have plenty of options!) They both participate in UPRVA and come back twice a week for dinner and academic support and recently spent their spring break with us, helping out around the school. Gilly and Henry both credit their success at St. Chris to their 5th

Read Across America Day

March 27, 2025

Our week-long Read Across America celebration, coordinated by our stellar 2nd grade teacher Emily Fritz, featured a variety of activities that brought our lower and middle school students together. Middle school students paired up with their lower school buddies for buddy reading, while mystery readers (2nd grader Sire’s mom is pictured below, and he couldn’t have been more proud) made surprise appearances throughout the week, sparking excitement in the classrooms. Our middle schoolers visited BBGB bookstore in Carytown to select a book to call their own and our youngest students read over 400 books to earn the reward of pieing Mr. Maruca, right in the face! “I’ve actually never been excited about a book, until this one. I can’t wait to read more tonight!”– Haley, 5th grade Reading has always been a top priority at AJC because we know it has the power to change the trajectory of a student’s academic journey. We’re proud

Tacos, Pizza, and More in Speech Contest

March 22, 2025

Middle School students in our Public Speaking elective recently put their persuasive skills to the test in a fun and engaging speech competition. As part of the elective, which is one of many offered each quarter, students chose to focus on topics like “Tacos vs. Pizza,” “Pancakes vs. Waffles,” and “Snowball Fight vs. Water Balloon Fight,” using the PEEL method (Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link) to structure their arguments. After revising and practicing their speeches, they made their case to our 2nd grade class who served as the audience and judges, evaluating the speeches based on eye contact, volume, enthusiasm, and confidence. “I thought it was an amazing experience. I liked being able to express myself freely. I felt like the 2nd graders were listening and I felt confident. I knew I was pretty good at public speaking so I wanted to take this class to get even better.”– Sherman, 7th Grade

Meet Jahiya, AJC Class of 2024

February 28, 2025

Jahiya, AJC Class of 2024, is back in the mix through Cristo Rey’s work-study program, and we couldn’t be happier to have her! Each week, Jahiya works as a Teacher’s Aide in Ms. Wean’s 3rd-grade classroom, where her special gift for connection shines. “Jahiya jumps in to help my students before I even ask. She gets on their level and relates so well with them. Whether it is math, reading, or hanging out with kids at recess, I can always count on Jahiya!” -Mrs. Wean, 3rd Grade Teacher Jahiya’s ability to engage with students and adults alike has made her a standout presence. She recently shared, “I love working with younger students, especially helping them with reading and math. Seeing their faces light up when they understand something for the first time is so rewarding.” A full-circle moment in the making.

Meet Dhykwon, AJC Class of 2015

January 31, 2025

From his time at Anna Julia Cooper School to his current work in social services, Dhykwon has shown his resilience, perseverance, and a commitment to giving back. He’s become a true role model. After graduating from AJC, Dhykwon went on to St. Christopher’s School, where he excelled in football and track, winning multiple awards, including all-state and all-prep honors. In addition to his athletic success, Dhykwon won a national gold medal in photography. He attended Christopher Newport University (CNU) where he played football and was involved in several organizations, including the Agape Gospel Choir, the Salvation Army, and the CNU NAACP. Our partner non-profit, UPRVA, has been by his side every step of the way. Dhykwon returned home to finish his bachelor’s degree at VCU and is now pursuing a Master of Social Work, while also working full-time at St. James Children’s Center. He recently shared his greatest strengths are

Victoria Buskey, Class of 2012

November 29, 2024

A member of the AJC’s very first class, Victoria has found success while following her love for science, which she shared was fueled by her experience on the robotics team at AJC. Victoria attended Richmond Community High School. With a full academic scholarship to Virginia State University, she completed her Bachelor and Master of Science in Biology with a focus on Cancer Biology and Secondary Education. Below she shares her remarkable journey. My time at VSU was marked by a deep dive into research, leading me to present at multiple national conferences and conduct research at esteemed institutions. In 2022, I transitioned to Cleveland, Ohio, where I immersed myself in leukemia research at the Cleveland Clinic, eventually finding my passion in sickle cell research. I now serve as a pharmaceutical research technologist. One of my proudest accomplishments is my ability to overcome challenges with determination. Despite facing hurdles, I’ve used

Inside AJC

Whimsy and Wild Things

A Powerful Partnership: Minds in Motion

Career Day

4th Annual Gordon Wallace Day of Giving

Gilly, Class of ’21 & Henry, Class of ’23

Read Across America Day

Tacos, Pizza, and More in Speech Contest

Meet Jahiya, AJC Class of 2024

Meet Dhykwon, AJC Class of 2015

Victoria Buskey, Class of 2012

Whimsy and Wild Things

A Powerful Partnership: Minds in Motion

Career Day

4th Annual Gordon Wallace Day of Giving

Gilly, Class of ’21 & Henry, Class of ’23

Read Across America Day

Tacos, Pizza, and More in Speech Contest

Meet Jahiya, AJC Class of 2024

Meet Dhykwon, AJC Class of 2015

Victoria Buskey, Class of 2012

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