February is always a busy time at AJC as we work to honor stories that have shaped our world and celebrate voices that inspire us. This year’s annual Black History Celebration was a culmination of this effort, highlighting various Black individuals and the work of our students.
Student MCs guided the audience through the program, which began with a song by The Lower School Choir. Students across grade levels dressed as notable Black figures and showcased their public speaking skills through interviews. They shared the accomplishments of the individuals they portrayed and imagined the advice those figures might offer future generations. |
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Also featured at the event were displays of student artwork throughout the gymnasium. Shadow boxes highlighted notable Black figures, abstract art depicted student perspectives on Black history, and prints created by second graders–inspired by artist James Lesesne Wells–adorned the walls.
A special moment during the program came when Middle School Principal Yolanda Gilliam and Dean of Students Linton Wade—affectionately known as Coach G and Coach Wade—were presented with the inaugural “Living Legacy Award”. Head of School Mike Maruca presented the award in recognition of their integrity, compassion, and purpose-driven leadership, as well as their lasting impact on our students, families, and broader school community. The event not only celebrated Black history, but was a great reminder of how far we have come and the hope that lies ahead for the future. |
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Staff Spotlight: Bridgette Craddock |
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Having grown up in Richmond and after working in various schools throughout her career, Facilities Manager Bridgette Craddock learned about AJC through a friend. While attending an AJC event a few years ago, she asked if the school was hiring and soon found herself here full-time. We recently sat down with Bridgette to hear about what she loves most about AJC, her role, and how she spends her time outside of work.
What do you love about AJC? "I love the kids. I was these kids at one time, so I know the struggle and the smiles. I can relate to them in a unique way." What do you love most about your job?
"I enjoy making a safe and clean environment for the kids. I try to go above and beyond. Not only do I clean, but I hold the students accountable for helping to keep their space clean." What do you enjoy doing in your free time? "I love spending time with my husband and 7 children. I also operate a small business baking and selling cakes, cupcakes, and other sweets." |
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Recently named Employee of the Month, Bridgette was praised by the colleague who nominated her:
“She juggles the enormous task of keeping the school clean and driving the bus, while also taking time to ask how people are, listen, and give great advice. She lives in the spirit of ‘love thy neighbor.'"
Whether she’s ensuring classrooms are clean and welcoming or offering a warm smile and uplifting words in the hallway, Bridgette embodies the spirit of AJC daily, and brightens our entire school community. We are so very grateful for Ms. Bridgette! |
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Art 180 Inspires Middle School Students for Black History Month |
This month, our 7th and 8th grade students had the unique opportunity to engage with Mecca Harris (pictured above with 8th grader, Imani) from Art 180, a nonprofit organization working to amplify the voices of young artists. During their elective period, students participated in a hands-on creative project energetically guided by Ms. Harris.
The classroom buzzed with excitement as students selected from a variety of culturally inspired materials to celebrate Black and Brown artistry -- including vibrant paints, textured papers, and patterned fabrics.
The artwork created during the session was proudly displayed during our Black History Month Celebration, highlighting our students' creativity and voices as part of the school community. |
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| ART 180 supports the future of Richmond area youth through arts programming that turns creative expression into confidence, connection, & critical thinking. |
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At Anna Julia Cooper School, we are blessed by the generous hearts of those who volunteer to walk beside us in our work. One such soul is Lee Hatcher, one of this year's Gabriel Award recipients, who has been a cherished volunteer in Mrs. Fritz’s second‑grade classroom since 2022.
Mr. Lee shows up—faithfully and warmly—every Wednesday to be part of the work of learning, discovery, and sometimes the chaos that comes with a room full of second graders. Lee’s service extends beyond the classroom too. For five years, he has served as a Lunch Buddy in our Lower School, spreading joy and making calm, steady friendships with students and staff alike. The minute he steps through the door, faces light up. Thanks for sharing your time with us, Mr. Lee! |
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"If you're wondering how well-liked Mr. Lee is by our students, you'd only need to be out on the playground when he arrives on Wednesday afternoons to find out--you'd hear shouts from current and past students saying hi, giving hugs, and updating him on their lives." -Second Grade Teacher, Mrs. Fritz |
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Building Confidence:
One Tie At A Time |
Principal Gilliam, famous for her endlessly stylish “Tie Tuesday” wardrobe, helped kindergarteners practice tying ties this week—and we may be biased, but we’d be hard-pressed to think of anything cuter in the whole wide world. You'll notice many of those sharp-looking ties belong to none other than Mr. Maruca!
Students struck confident poses imitating Black and Brown leaders featured throughout the Lower School during Black History Month. We hope moments like these provide a sense of belonging and empower students to imagine new possibilities for themselves. |
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Darrell Atkins, Class of 2012 |
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As a member of AJC's very first class, Darrell Atkins is part of the foundation of Anna Julia Cooper School. He says he still shares AJC’s story wherever he goes, telling everyone about the love and special people here.
Darrell recently stopped by while working in the neighborhood, and couldn't help but grin ear-to-ear as he spotted his 8th grade photo on our wall. His warmth and bright smile haven't changed a bit. He looked around at a school now serving hundreds and couldn’t quite believe how much it has grown since 2009.
After high school Darrell explored work as an electrician and landscaper before finding his calling with Groundwork RVA, a local nonprofit. Going on five years now, he has helped expand Richmond’s tree canopy — planting trees and bringing shade and relief from the heat, especially at bus stops and throughout nearby neighborhoods that need it most. Having grown up with his “hands in the dirt” helping his grandmother tend to her garden, the work feels meant to be.
We couldn’t be more proud of Darrell and the important work he’s doing for his community. |
Mrs. Fritz and her 2nd graders pause at a Cool The City mural during a Black History Month art walk. Cool The City, a capacity-building project funded by the US Forest Service, supports the work of Groundwork RVA. |
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From planting roots at AJC to planting trees across Richmond -- Darrell stopped by with a trailer full of trees in tow! |
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Groundwork RVA's mission is to cultivate the next generation of urban conservationists in Richmond, Virginia. |
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Congrats to our basketball teams and stellar cheerleaders for a fantastic season! With Coaches Quintin Terrell, Stephanie Turner, Tamara Johnson, and Myrtle Thaxton leading the way, our 5th–8th grade cheerleaders leveled up the energy at every game. Led by Coaches Linton Wade, Neil Roberts, and Manny Young, our Boys’ team went 10-2 with a second place tournament finish. Our 7th & 8th grade girls, coached by John Szymendera, Aaron Everic, and Markaya James, finished strong at 10-3, while our 5th & 6th grade girls showed great growth and notched a couple wins, ending 2-7 — they'll get ‘em next year!
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7th & 8th Grade Boys Basketball Team |
| 7th & 8th Grade Girls Basketball Team |
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5th-8th Grade Cheerleading Squad |
| 5th & 6th Girls Basketball Team |
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Seventh grader Brooklyn met her writing hero, Ada Limón, the 24th Poet Laureate of the United States, at the College of William & Mary this month. Brooklyn's own poetry has been inspired by Limón’s work, which she discovered during Writing Wednesdays.
Thanks to our incredible Writing Wednesday coaches, Elizabeth Johnson and Susan Barstow, Brooklyn joined mostly adults and high school students in a packed W&M auditorium to experience a reading and discussion session by Limón.
After the talk, Brooklyn met Limón for a book signing and shared her poem, "Away from Me, Too," pictured here. “I was so nervous,” she recalls. “I had shivers up and down my spine—what if she didn’t like it or didn’t get it? It doesn’t even rhyme!” Limón signed Brooklyn's book with a personal message about courage. This budding writer has a bright future ahead, and so much more to express through her writing -- an AJC poet laureate in the making! |
| Brooklyn's poem, "Away From Me, Too" |
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| March 5 & March 6: Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences March 6: No School for Students March 19: Sneaker Ball March 23: No School for Students - Staff Work Day March 30 – April 3: Spring Break
UPCOMING SPORTING EVENTS March 20 - 5:15–6:15pm: Soccer Match vs Seven Hills March 27 - 4:00–5:00pm: Soccer Match vs Sabot |
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There are many ways to support our students. |
Send classroom supplies through our Amazon Wishlist. Contact Ashley Raggi at raggia@ajcschool.org to learn how you can make a difference by volunteering.
Did you know? You can make your volunteer time go even further. Some employers match volunteer hours with financial donations — meaning your time at AJC could turn into funding for our students. Consider checking whether your (or your spouse’s) employer offers a volunteer match. Support our Hope Grows Expansion Campaign. |
Thanks for supporting our hard work and big dreams! |
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