James Monroe Alumni Fund Makes First Three Grants to Support Student Experience
We are thrilled to announce that the James Monroe Alumni Fund a project of The Endowment Project Foundation has awarded its first three grants to James Monroe High School! Launched in late 2024 with the generous support of 70 initial donors, the fund is dedicated to enhancing student experiences and fostering engagement. These inaugural grants focus on increasing attendance, expanding access to school events, and supporting college readiness—three areas that directly impact students' success.
"March Madness" Attendance Challenge
Jayem's unique take on March Madness is tackling student engagement and absenteeism through a fun, competitive approach. Students earn points for improved attendance, with prizes awarded throughout the event. Thanks to the Alumni Fund’s support, this initiative has the resources to make attendance improvement an exciting and rewarding experience.
Regular attendance is a critical factor in academic success, yet traditional approaches to reducing absenteeism often fall short. Instead of focusing on punishment, James Monroe is creating positive incentives—turning attendance into a game that motivates students to show up and stay engaged.
The competition is well underway, and the seniors are currently in the lead! With class pride on the line, we can’t wait to see who takes the win at the end of the tournament.
Giving All Students the Chance to "Glow"
Every student deserves the opportunity to participate in the full high school experience, including social events that create lasting memories. Financial constraints often prevent some students from attending, but the Alumni Fund is making sure no one misses out on this season’s Glow Dance by underwriting entry costs for students in need.
Creating an inclusive and welcoming school environment is essential for student success. School dances are more than just social gatherings—they help students build connections, develop social skills, and form lifelong memories.
By removing financial barriers, we’re ensuring that every student can experience the joy of these milestone events, fostering a stronger, more connected student body where everyone feels valued and included.
Supporting College Aspirations Through Campus Visits
The Alumni Fund is proud to support the Men of Purpose student group with funding for their upcoming college tour to Virginia Union University on March 14, 2025!
Exposure to college campuses plays a vital role in helping students envision their future and see higher education as an attainable goal. These visits provide firsthand experience of college life, turning abstract possibilities into real aspirations. This is especially important for this group, who are high-performing students from under-resourced backgrounds and may not otherwise have the opportunity to visit a college campus or picture themselves in higher education.
We are thrilled to support this college tour as it represents an important step in building aspirations and helping students see themselves as future college students.
These first three grants are just the beginning! The James Monroe Alumni Fund is committed to continuing its impact on student engagement and success. Stay tuned for more updates as we invest in meaningful opportunities for Jayem students!
If you would like to learn more, please reach out to Erica Levin: elevin@endowmentproject.com