School District launches Stronger Connections after-school program for third graders

The Fayette County Public Schools (FCPS) Equity Council convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing student support and engagement. A key focus of the meeting was the "Stronger Connections" after-school program, which aims to foster a sense of belonging and improve reading resilience among third-grade students. Despite the challenges of the spring season, over 300 students are currently participating in this initiative.

The program emphasizes building students' confidence in their reading and writing abilities, providing a platform for meaningful connections between educators and students. In addition to the after-school program, the council highlighted the establishment of more than 30 mentoring programs across middle and high schools, impacting over a thousand students. These programs are designed to provide structured support and guidance, with a focus on best practices for mentoring.

During the meeting, Dr. Everett raised a question regarding the coaching provided for mentors, expressing interest in connecting a doctoral student from Lexington with the mentoring program. The council confirmed their willingness to facilitate this connection, outlining a straightforward process for integrating community partners into their mentoring efforts, which includes necessary training for those working with students.

The discussions underscored the district's commitment to enhancing educational equity and support systems for students, with ongoing efforts to strengthen community involvement in mentoring initiatives. The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the importance of these programs in fostering student success and resilience.