Host Jeremy C. Park interviews John Shearer, Executive Director of Academy 4, who highlights how the nonprofit organization is changing lives through relationships and ensuring that every 4th grader gets their own mentor. John discusses Academy 4’s growth from serving one school in Fort Worth, Texas, to now operating in 60 schools with over 6,000 volunteers, including their programs at Leadership Prep Academy and Oakshire Elementary in Memphis, Tennessee, where they will serve a combined 365 students between 4th and 5th grade programs. The organization’s signature program provides every 4th grader with a mentor for 90 minutes monthly, followed by 5th graders mentoring 1st graders in a Reading Buddies program, while also offering parenting classes for families.
John explains that 4th and 5th grades are crucial because children at age 9-10 are developing abstract thinking skills, forming their ethics and values, and are still receptive to positive adult influence before peer influence increases. The program relies entirely on community funding rather than school funding, and John highlights inspiring stories like Doris, an 85-year-old mentor who recruited additional volunteers and helped secure a $10,000 grant for the organization. John emphasizes the importance of community support through volunteers, donations, and corporate partnerships. He encourages community members to visit academy4.org to learn more about volunteering, giving, or bringing the program to their schools.
Visit https://academy4.org to learn more and get involved with Academy 4.
