As the sun just began to stretch its golden fingers over the horizon, a sense of anticipation filled the air at a small charter school nestled amidst the sprawling fields. It was the very first day of the new Mulberry Community Academy, built with the hopes and dreams of providing a brighter future for the children of migrant farmworkers and other low-income families.
The new schoolyard, quiet during the summer months, is once again buzzing with the energy of kindergarten and first-grade students. While there were some last-minute challenges to be worked out behind the scenes, the first day was filled with excitement, anticipation, and learning.
“What an historic day for RCMA,” said Isabel Garcia, Executive Director for RCMA. “When you see these little ones coming to school for the first time, they’re not sure what to expect. But as soon as they start to see and make new friends, these children are ready to learn! And for the parents, you can see the pride in their eyes, as well as relief, knowing that their children will be taken care of and are able to begin a journey towards a brighter future. For me, it’s the best feeling in the world!”
Meanwhile, in Wimauma and Immokalee, the RCMA academies there were also welcoming scholars for the first day of the 2023-2024 school year. Each classroom had been transformed into havens of learning, welcoming the students back with colorful decorations and displays. As the day unfolded, the classrooms came alive with the sounds of laughter, curiosity, and the rustling of notebooks.
The Academies of RCMA continue to nurture the dreams of these young minds, cultivating a love for learning that will empower students to reach their highest potential as individuals, have life choices and opportunities for success.
