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BASIS Independent McLean Hosts Local Jack and Jill of America Chapter at Writing Symposium
Future African-American Leaders' Organization Present Reading Workshop at Local McLean School
Jack and Jill of America, Inc.’s Northern Virginia Chapter conducted a Reading & Writing Symposium recently at BASIS Independent McLean in McLean, Va. facilitated by an Emmy-award winning journalist, distinguished authors, celebrated teachers and a gifted illustrator, to encourage pre-school through high school students to develop an appreciation for the art of writing and illustration through engaging, interactive activities. For more information on BASIS Independent McLean, go to http://mclean.basisindependent.com.
Along with the workshops, facilitated by author/educators Paula Young and Vera Woodson, illustrator Brian Washington and Emmy-award winning journalist Vanessa Russell, the symposium featured a pop-up book fair organized by Dr. Courtney Davis and featuring: U. Knuckles, author of “Stick and Move”; Sherrita Berry-Pettus, author of “Smile Bright Chocolate Prince” and “Rock on With Your Afro Puffs”; Bri Jones, author of “Onika” and Christine Turner Jackson, author of “Pitch Black”. Alejandro Danois, author of ‘The Boys of Dunbar: A Story of Love, Hope and Basketball’ also gave the keynote address.
The Northern Virginia Jack & Jill chapter collected almost 100 book donations for local organizations.
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“As a school dedicated to giving students the academic preparation and self-determination they need to be the next generation of thought leaders, we are thrilled to partner with Jack & Jill of America,” said Sean Aiken, head of school of BASIS Independent McLean of McLean, Va.
About Jack and Jill of America: Jack and Jill of America, Inc., founded in 1938, is a membership organization of mothers with children ages 2 to 19, dedicated to nurturing future African-American leaders by strengthening children through leadership development, volunteer service, philanthropic giving and civic duty. The Jack and Jill membership is comprised of chapters across the country including those in Washington, D.C., Maryland and the Northern Virginia area. In 2016, the Northern Virginia Chapter celebrated its 50th anniversary serving communities and families. Go to ww.nova.jackandjillonline.org.
