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Community Engagement Initiatives

Greater Heights Basketball Program
The Greater Heights youth basketball program offers a positive outlet for young individuals by engaging them in basketball. This initiative encourages youth to develop team spirit and leadership skills through local, citywide, and interstate games.
Under the community and family engagement initiative, the program has broadened its horizons, now forming basketball teams for elementary, middle, and high school students.
This expansion aims to keep more youth off the streets and on the courts, fostering a supportive community environment.

Drumming Program
The Drumming Program provides young scholars with wonderful opportunities to learn about the rich history of drums, the variety of drum types, and the diverse sounds they can produce.
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The program introduces children to essential musical concepts such as sound use, rhythm changes, and the importance of teamwork.
By offering drumming instruction, the program fosters music appreciation and helps build confidence in children, allowing them to explore and experience their creative abilities.
This holistic and well-rounded music education plays a vital role in the academic and personal development of children, helping young leaders engage with music in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

Martial Arts Program
The Martial Arts Program is dedicated to instilling values of respect, discipline, and self-control in children. Through our teachings, we help develop character strength, bodies, minds, and self-esteem.
Children in our program can grow and thrive in a supportive environment by engaging in self-defense techniques and physical and mental exercises.
Our experienced instructors are committed to providing top-quality training in martial arts while nurturing a sense of camaraderie among our students.
The program is not just about physical fitness; it is a holistic personal development approach focusing on mental strength and emotional well-being.

English Language Acquisition Program
The ESL Program empowers second language learners with essential language skills. Its core objective is to equip parents of FLACS second language learners, encompassing both young adults and older individuals, with the necessary language proficiency to interact confidently within their communities.
Through relentless dedication and effort, the program strives to establish a strong foundation of functional language skills that enhance communication abilities and foster a greater understanding of English.
By providing participants with the tools and resources essential for effective communication, the program aims to instill a heightened sense of self-assurance and competence, enabling them to actively participate in and contribute to their surroundings.
The program offers three levels of ESL classes, allowing students to begin at the level of English conversation they are comfortable with.

Leadership and Advocacy Workshops
These workshops aim to amplify the voices of parents, students, teachers, and community leaders by equipping them with the necessary tools to foster resilience and community engagement.
The workshops provide a platform for initiative members to express their perspectives, stories, and experiences, moving towards developing the “we story.” Opportunities are created for participants to share their voices through storytelling, art, writing, and public speaking.
The workshops empower participants to advocate for social change by raising awareness about unique challenges and the charter school experience. Participants learn civic engagement skills, such as meeting with officials to determine the direction and resources for the community, and organizing their peers to support and advocate for their community’s needs.
The workshops foster collaboration among diverse communities to promote dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect, encouraging participants to develop meaningful connections and relationships with individuals from different backgrounds.
Collaborative projects and initiatives that promote inclusivity, equity, and social justice are also encouraged.
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Super Saturday
The Super Saturday Program is an enriching initiative for children ages 6 to 13. It offers a diverse range of activities, including chess, martial arts, crafts, and visual and digital arts, all aimed at building character skills and promoting family and community.
Six college students, three of whom are FLACS alumni, lead the program activities and assist instructors. The interns provide mentorship and guidance, creating a nurturing environment for young minds to grow and thrive. The program includes activities involving parents and children, such as trips, community and holiday celebrations, children’s exhibitions, tournaments, and community festivals.
Super Saturday provides a safe space for children, limiting access to technology to help them develop their bodies and minds without the influence of the virtual world.
Collaboration Opportunities
Latino Pastoral Action Center (LPAC)
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The Latino Pastoral Action Center (LPAC) is a faith-based organization dedicated to fostering sustainable transformation in the Bronx through collaborative partnerships and community development. LPAC seeks to work alongside government officials, community leaders, social justice initiatives, interfaith organizations, and others committed to improving the lives of Bronx residents.
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With a mission grounded in faith, justice, and holistic development, LPAC focuses on addressing systemic challenges while empowering individuals and communities to thrive. The organization emphasizes organic community building, fostering strong networks of support that promote equity, opportunity, and sustainable growth.
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LPAC believes that meaningful transformation requires collaborative action. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, LPAC aims to address critical issues such as education, economic development, housing, and social justice. Through its partnerships and programs, LPAC serves as a bridge between communities and resources, ensuring that every effort is impactful and inclusive.
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Together, LPAC and its partners work to create a brighter future for the Bronx—one rooted in shared vision, compassion, and the pursuit of justice.
