• College Readiness Program nationally recognized by President Obama as a Commitment to Action
• Recognized as a Bright Spot in Hispanic education by the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics
• Launched new online training program for volunteers
• 5 new AmeriCorps VISTAs added to our team to help build capacity

Donor Spotlight: Jim Whitten

As we look back on the past year, we want to recognize a donor who helped make 2015 a great one for APIE. Jim Whitten Roof Consultants is a longtime supporter of AISD and graciously sponsored APIE’s first annual Donor Appreciation and Silent Auction event this October. We spoke with the company’s Vice President Robert Hernandez about their company’s culture of giving and the importance of supporting education in our community.

With AISD as one of Jim Whitten Roof Consultant’s largest clients, Hernandez believes it is “natural to support the school district and APIE.” The company also strongly believes in the power of education to change lives. Hernandez sought his own education to set an example for younger members of his family, and also encourages continuing education with coworkers to stay ahead of developments in the construction field. Hernandez has seen firsthand the need for local businesses to step up and support education in Austin. “Businesses in Austin say there’s not enough qualified employees coming up, but [they] need to be strong partners giving back the tools and resources necessary to educate solid workers.”

Jim Whitten Roof Consultants work to give students a comfortable learning environment so students can focus on their studies rather than leaky roofs or windows. Hernandez tells kids, “Study hard and don’t give up. There’s a bright future out there with opportunity if you’re willing to work for it.” The company wishes everyone Happy Holidays spent with families and friends. To join Jim Whitten Roof Consultants in celebrating APIE students this holiday season, please visit our donate page and help us reach our goal of $16,000 by 2016.

College Readiness Advocate of the Year: Yesenia Yanez

Congratulations to Yesenia Yanez for being recognized as Advocate of the Year at the 2015 Texas State of Education ceremony. Yesenia has been a College Readiness Advocate at APIE since 2014 and tutored over 30 students at McCallum, Anderson, and LBJ in reading, writing, and math to help them become “college ready.” Over 50% of Yesenia’s students have met “college ready” standards by graduation, closing the educational gap for high-needs students. Her job allows her to fulfill her passion for helping others, and as a first generation college graduate, she has a direct impact in supporting students in achieving their college dreams.

“The most rewarding thing is getting to see the development of a senior throughout the year.” –Yesenia Yanez, APIE College Readiness Advocate

APIE in the Classroom

APIE has completed another great semester in the classroom. Thank you to all of our volunteers who have helped make an impact in AISD students’ lives and for their dedication to education. We wish you all happy holidays and look forward to seeing you back in the schools on Tuesday, January 19.

Know someone who would make a great Classroom Coach? We need Spanish-speaking volunteers. Please email our 2nd Grade Program Coordinators for more information.

APIE after School

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our Holiday Mingle & Jingle at Uncle Billy’s on Thursday, December 10. We reached $500 in jewelry sales purchased from our Stella & Dot representative Whitney Fields. Whitney has generously offered to donate a portion of the sales to support APIE’s programs. Thank you, Whitney. If you were unable to attend the event, there is still time to purchase jewelry online. Order before December 21 to receive your items in time for Christmas Day.

APIE Donor Meter

During this time of giving, we would like to give thanks to all who have supported APIE in 2015. Your time and donations have made this year one of our most successful. Help us have another great semester as we kick-off the new year!