Oak Ridge Youth Development School leaving a legacy with KCK youth

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Summer slide, when kid’s learning slows down when school is out, can be concerning for parents with elementary school-aged kids.

However, the Oak Ridge Youth Development School in Kansas City, Kansas helps encourage learning year-round with summer school programs, as well as tutoring when school is in session.

“Our aim is to not only keep them where they end at the school year but to also help them gain a grade,” said Oak Ridge Youth Development School Director Charlie Jennings.

Jennings also explained that, while keeping kids’ minds engaged year-round is important, it is also a difficult task to achieve.

“Our biggest expense is hiring certified teachers,” she said.

That’s why it was great news when the school was a recipient of the Hollywood Casino Grand, which is worth more than $23,000.

“A grant like that allows us to hire almost all of the teachers that we will need for our elementary classes,” said Jennings.

During the summer months, kids focus on more than just math and reading skills, “but also the enrichment they have kids of color how much they invest in making kids comfortable in their skin,” said Odile De Berner, a parent and tutor.

Both of the De Berner children attended Oak Ridge this summer, Odile even decided to become a tutor.

“When I saw a fourth-grade girl struggle, I was able to relate to her and I said, ‘It’s okay, we’re here for you,'” De Berner said.

This is all part of a cycle to get kids the right education they need so they’re set up for their future.

“What legacy can we leave the kids with,” added Aime De Berner.

“I think the most important legacy is education.”

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