Each day in partner public schools across southeastern Kentucky, a team of approximately 20 AmeriCorps members with our math intervention program work with students to teach foundational math skills. As the year draws to a close, we took a moment to ask each member to reflect on the reason behind their service. While there were so many powerful stories shared, we wanted to share about Jenny at RW Combs Elementary in Perry County and familial roots behind her commitment to service.
“My brother was diagnosed with moderate autism and dyslexia at a young age. Growing up alongside him, I have witnessed firsthand the challenges he faced. For him, life often felt scary, overwhelming, and unpredictable, colored by frustrations both with communication and learning. This experience was a tender lesson in understanding and compassion, further emphasizing the importance of showing love and kindness, practicing patience, and embracing acceptance. I have come to understand that disabilities, particularly learning disabilities, often go unseen, and they can be quite intimidating for both the individuals living with them and those around them.
Through my brother’s journey, I’ve learned invaluable lessons about empathy and understanding. I realized that everyone, especially children, learns at their own unique pace and in ways that cater to their individual needs. From watching him navigate educational settings to seeing his struggles with various subjects, I came to appreciate the transformative potential of personalized instruction and tailored teaching approaches. Observing my brother’s progress instilled in me a belief that with the right support, every child can thrive.
I recognize that many children with dyscalculia and other learning differences have likely faced frustration and discouragement in their educational journeys. They may have walked into class feeling defeated before even attempting a problem. This is a scenario I wish to change. As I look forward to my role as a member of AmeriCorps, I am determined to provide individualized attention to each child I work with, ensuring that they feel comfortable and confident in their abilities. I aspire to create an educational atmosphere where students feel valued, understood, and excited about learning.
My goal is to inspire students to realize their potential. I want to demonstrate that despite any disabilities they may have, they can flourish and overcome any obstacles in their path. It is my dream to facilitate a love for learning that not only helps them academically but nurtures their self-esteem and resilience, ensuring they feel supported as they navigate their educational journeys.”
To learn more about our math and reading intervention programs or to inquire about serving on our team, visit Hindman.org/recruitment!
The Program is funded under the National and Community Service Act and Serve America Act, supported by the Kentucky State Service Commission.
