Inside AJC

Tacos, Pizza, and More in Speech Contest

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

Read More »

Meet Jahiya, AJC Class of 2024

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.

Read More »

Meet Dhykwon, AJC Class of 2015

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

Read More »

Victoria Buskey, Class of 2012

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

Read More »

Meet Jahiya, AJC Class of 2024

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

Read More »

Meet Dhykwon, AJC Class of 2015

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

Read More »

Victoria Buskey, Class of 2012

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

Read More »