Dr. Nathan Parker, Superintendent of the Summit School District, addressed the Junior League of Summit at its General Membership Meeting the evening of Tuesday, January 14th. Dr. Parker talked about emerging needs within the Summit community and how they reflect within the school system. He specifically spoke about at-risk youth and the Summit Block as referenced in the United Way Study, “2012 Greater Union County Needs Assessment.” Dr. Parker described some of their everyday struggles to meet basic needs and how these impediments often cause children to fall behind academically.
"All communities have families who are in need, whose children qualify for free or reduced lunch. But what has raised our eyebrows and consciousness about this issue is that for the first time in Summit, an entire census block was considered at risk - the same way other communities in Newark, Irvington, Camden, and other NJ cities have experienced historically," commented JLS President Colleen Markley, "What is it that we can do to help elevate the standard of living and care for children in these neighborhoods?"
At the meeting, the JLS discussed how to take action and make a change. Members strategized and discussed ways the JLS may be uniquely positioned to help children meet those basic needs and how to start them off on the right path. The evening was both highly informative and eye-opening for members. It was a great starting point for the JLS as they strategically plan to build better communities.
