SDARJ African American Achievement Award at Sussex Consortium

The Southern Delaware Alliance for Racial Justice (SDARJ) recently honored Jaden Jackson and Pastor Purnell, students at Sussex Consortium.

Lynsy Gruwell, Jaden Jackson’s teacher, said that Jaden is always cheerful and friendly. He says hello to almost everyone he sees. Whenever a classmate or staff member is absent, Jaden is the first to notice and to ask about them. Jaden is an intelligent reader and enjoys volunteering this year at Bethany Blues, Midway Fitness, Dolle’s, and Beebe Hospital. Jaden is a pleasure to have in class and his peers are lucky to have him as a friend.

Eva Schmitt-Robbins, Pastor Purnell’s teacher, said that Pastor is an enthusiastic student who is at his best when he is busy. He often volunteers to help in the school building by completing extra daily living tasks and domestic chores. Pastor enjoys cooking for himself at lunch time and is a highly motivated and capable worker at all vocational training sites. He is friendly, funny, and kind and his company and sense of humor are a welcome addition to the team. Pastor is a pleasure to have in class.

Accompanied by school staff, Jaden and Pastor were honored in a ceremony at the school, and each received a $20 gift card from SDARJ.

SDARJ initiated the African American Achievement award to recognize students who represent the ideals of leadership, effort, and excellence in their schools. Students from each school in the Cape Henlopen and Indian River School Districts are recognized throughout the school year. SDARJ is a nonpartisan organization that educates, informs, and advocates for racial justice, equality, and fair opportunity. For more information, go to sdarj.org.