Dear Parents and Guardians, Link Here to Listen to Audio
I know...this week I have alot to say!
But I am so excited to share highlights from this past week with our L.E.A.D. Academy scholars, along with several important upcoming dates and announcements.
This week, our focus was on Financial Literacy and Budgeting, and we had the distinct honor of hosting St. Louis Treasurer Adam Layne for an exclusive meet and greet with our students. This was a powerful opportunity for our scholars to engage directly with a community leader and gain real-world insight into financial responsibility and economic empowerment.
In addition, we welcomed a site visit from the Office of Violence Prevention, one of our key financial sponsors. Their representative spent time observing the program and interacting with our scholars. She expressed how impressed she was with their engagement, discipline, and growth. Based on her feedback, we are confident that we will receive a very strong and positive assessment.
At 1:00 PM, our cohort took their first official outing to Parkway West High School. I am proud to report that every scholar represented the Diamond Diva Empowerment Foundation with excellence. There were absolutely no issues, and their behavior, respect, and maturity were outstanding. I am extremely proud of each and every one of them.
Please review the following important announcements:
1. Listening Party and Resource Session | Date: Friday, May 9th
Time: 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. We are inviting all parents, or a parental representative, to attend and participate. Each student will receive a $50 participation bonus when a parent or representative attends.
This session is designed to create a safe, structured, and uninterrupted space for both parents and students to engage in a meaningful panel discussion. The purpose is to listen, respond, and address real concerns, trauma, challenges, and questions our youth are facing today. We will also provide access to valuable community resources that support family stability, youth development, and overall well-being. Your presence is highly encouraged and deeply valued.
2. L.E.A.D. Academy Celebration Event | Date: Saturday, May 16th @ 10am
This will be a special outing to celebrate scholars who have successfully completed the program. There is no dress code for this event. Additional details will be shared soon.
3. No Class - Memorial Holiday | Date: Saturday, May 23rd
There will be no session in observance of the holiday. Please enjoy this time with your family.
4. Mandatory Program Assessment Day | Date: May 30th @ 10am
This day is required for all scholars. Activities will include post-assessment completion and graduation rehearsal.
5. Six Flags Field Trip | Date: June 5, 2026
We will be taking our scholars to Six Flags Theme Park as part of our end-of-program celebration. More details will be provided soon.
6. Graduation Ceremony | Date: June 6, 2026 @ 10am
invite Everyone! This is a time of Celebration to show scholars that they are supported by a village of individuals and that they have the support of their Community. Scholars will be participating in the graudation, so we want to show up and show up! Please invite as many as you can!
GRADUATION DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS:
- All scholars must wear all black attire with gold or silver accessories.
- Girls should wear a black, knee-length dress. (I will have some various size dresses available for girls to take on May 9th, if needed.)
- Boys will be measured for suits on May 2nd & 9th. Attendance is required to receive their free suit.
We are incredibly proud of the growth, discipline, and leadership our scholars continue to demonstrate. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in their success.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Sincerely,
Dr. Shantasha Love, Program Manager