The Kansas City, Kansas chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is stepping up for local families by providing a free ACT and college‑preparation workshop this weekend. The event runs from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 18, at the Kansas City, Kansas Community College Technical Education Center.
Why the workshop matters
Co‑Program Director Allison Williamson explained that the chapter identified a clear need for college‑readiness support after reviewing local test scores and college‑success rates. “When we were looking at the test scores and the success rates for our high school students actually going off to college and actually being successful in college, we found that there was a need here in the Kansas City, Kansas school area,” Williamson said.
To address that gap, the workshop will focus on two of the four ACT subjects—math and language arts. Local high‑school teacher Patrice Brewer developed the curriculum that will be used, ensuring the material aligns with what students will see on the actual exam.
Hands‑on help for students and families
Beyond subject review, Williamson will offer essay‑writing critiques and walk students through the Common Application. Attendees will also receive information on financial‑aid opportunities and learn about other community events and workshops available throughout the year.
Juniors and seniors who are eligible to take the ACT can stop by a dedicated enrollment station at the event to sign up for the next testing date. “We want to do it in October, right now, before early enrollment and early applications are going in because some of these colleges are identifying the people that they want and they’re notifying them once and early. We want to make sure they have the ACT score that they want, and that actually opens up the door for different scholarship opportunities,” Williamson added.
Limited spots, community focus
Space is limited to 24 students, so families interested in the workshop should register early. The chapter hopes to make this an annual offering, reinforcing the belief that college is an attainable goal for every student.
Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is a philanthropic and leadership‑development organization founded in 1938 that serves African‑American mothers and their children ages 2 to 19. With more than 250 chapters nationwide and over 70,000 family members, the organization emphasizes education, civic engagement and community service.
How to sign up
Families can register for the workshop through the link provided by the chapter. With a focus on empowering KCK youth, the event reflects the community’s commitment to strong families, faith‑based values and individual liberty through education.
Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.