SAT or ACT Test Date Canceled? Here’s A Silver Lining

SAT or ACT Test Date Canceled? Here’s A Silver Lining

by | Education

The coronavirus-related closures of standardized test centers offer an important opportunity

SAT or ACT Test Date Canceled? Canceled standardized test dates can be a huge source of frustration for our juniors, as they’ve spent months preparing. But the uncertain future of the SAT and ACT has a silver lining for many students across the nation.

In the beginning of the pandemic, the ACT Inc. and The College Board canceled the administration of the ACT and SAT, resulting in hundreds of thousands of high school juniors (and seniors looking to improve their score) struggling to reschedule their test date. In effort to help, both the SAT and ACT have added Saturday test dates and testing opportunities in schools this fall, but the few test centers that remain open are often full because they must operate at decreased capacity to adhere to social distancing guidelines.

Due to these difficulties in taking the exam, a record number of colleges and universities have either suspended the standardized test requirement or made it optional. Notably, the University of California system has suspended the standardized test requirement (ACT/SAT) for all California freshman applicants until fall 2024. Other colleges around the country have also changed admission requirements, for just this year or for the next two to three years. In general, more colleges and universities are adjusting their application process to be test optional or test blind.

Test Optional vs. Test Blind Policy

Test optional means that it is not required that students submit their SAT or ACT scores as a part of their application. Test blind means that the admissions office will not look at SAT or ACT scores, even if the student submits them. Most colleges are test optional.

Check if a college or university is test optional here. In the second column of the table, TO represents test optional and TF represents test free, an alternate term for test-blind.

As of October 9th, 2020 there are 65 campuses with test blind, test free, or score free admissions policies for fall 2021, or beyond. Find a list of those institutions here.

 

What This Means for Students

This change in policy has significant implications for students, at every point of the college application process. Right now, juniors and seniors may have a difficult time registering to take the SAT or ACT and many students might decide not to test at all. Ultimately, these new policies make it possible for students to apply to college and have access to selective colleges without the limitation of standardized testing.

Students who would have never considered certain colleges and universities, because of their standardized test scores, now have the opportunity to apply. Currently, students can show their strength and competitiveness as an applicant with their GPA, personal essay, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and more.

Research has long demonstrated that a student’s test scores are not indicative of their potential to be successful in college. Some students are simply not great test-takers, so the option to skip the SAT or ACT is ideal.

This policy change is a huge step toward equity in the college admissions process – one that is long overdue considering the disparities that exist for many college applicants. Standardized tests often favor wealthier students whose families can afford to pay for tutoring and prep classes. While standardized tests can also be a way for students from low-income families to show their strengths, the cost to prepare for and take the test can be a barrier.

The Best Decision for Your Child

We recognize both the limitations of standardized testing and the opportunities it can unlock, knowing that students with low GPAs can use SAT or ACT scores to make their college application more competitive and students with high SAT or ACT scores can secure merit-based scholarships.

Many colleges will use test scores for placement purposes, even if not for admissions purposes. Also, SAT or ACT scores might be required by the NCAA for student athletes. We recommend registering for the SAT or ACT if your college of choice recommends or requires it for admission.

Whether your student decides to take the test, The Blue Heart Foundation remains committed to preparing them for success.

Standardized Testing Tips & Resources

Explore free online resources from the College Board and Khan Academy®, including full-length practice tests and personalized learning tools. The ACT also launched a website featuring free digital learning resources for students.

The ACT has increased their fee waiver allotment for low income students from 2 per student to 4 per student. Students will still need to obtain these ACT waivers from their school counselors.

SAT Waivers have gone digital in 2020-2021, so students must obtain fee waiver codes from their counselor. Once a waiver code is entered for the first time, all future waivers will automatically be in the student’s online College Board account and available for future use.

For seniors planning to apply to a California State University, register for free information sessions here.

Additionally, The Blue Heart Foundation collaborates with the University of California – San Diego for an intensive SAT prep program, called Students With Academic Goals (SWAG). We also help make applying to college more affordable by using the Common Black App and providing access to SAT waivers, as well as CSU & UC application fee waivers.

As a direct result of the hard work and dedication of our members, The Blue Heart Foundation boasts a 100% college acceptance rate. We are proud to report that our young men have earned thousands of dollars in scholarships to universities across the country.

Contact us today to learn more about how we support our youth in the college application process.

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

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Understanding Teenage Depression

Understanding Teenage Depression

by | Mental Health

Being a teenager can be challenging. understanding teenage depression is equally challenging. There are numerous changes taking place in the body and the brain of a teenager, which have lasting effects on the way they think, understand, and behave.

In addition to the psychological and physical changes, teenagers are also experiencing changes in the way that they interact with others, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. Many teens across the nation are no longer interacting with their peers and teachers in-person on a daily basis, and interacting significantly more with those they live with. All of these changes can have a profound impact on their mental health.

Beyond the challenges of being a teenager, being a black teenager can bring additional distress, especially for young men. Too often, young black men face a lack of love and acceptance from their immediate communities and society at large. Plus, many young black men are not taught and encouraged to process and talk about their emotional experiences. This can create a sense of isolation, frustration, anger, and resentment which can manifest in many ways, including teenage depression.

According to the CDC, depression is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental disorders in children. Recent statistics demonstrate that 7.4% of children aged 3-17 years (approximately 4.5 million) have a diagnosed behavior problem, and 3.2% of children aged 3-17 years (approximately 1.9 million) have diagnosed depression. The CDC also states that the rates of youth being diagnosed with depression (and anxiety) have increased over time.

 

Teenage depression- What is it?

While experts agree that teenage depression is common, it still should be taken seriously for every single case. Teenage depression is a serious mental health condition that results in teens feeling overwhelmingly sad for a long period of time. Typically, depressed teens are not able to concentrate or do the things they usually enjoy. This includes daily activities, like sleeping, eating, and doing school work.

According to the Mayo Clinic, the symptoms of teenage depression can vary, but there are common emotional changes and behavioral changes associated with this condition. Because teenage years can be inherently tough with normal, everyday ups and downs, it can be difficult to tell if your teen is depressed and overwhelmed by life or if your teen is capable of managing these challenges.

The Mayo Clinic also outlines a variety of issues that can be involved in the cause of depression and the risk factors that may increase the likelihood of developing or exacerbating teenage depression, including: changes in brain chemistry or hormones, inherited traits or early childhood trauma, learned patterns of negative thinking, being a victim or witnessing violence, having issues that negatively impact self esteem, having a learning disability or other mental health condition, abusing alcohol, nicotines or other drugs, and being LGBTQ+ in an unsupportive environment.

If signs and symptoms of depression begin to interfere with your teen’s daily life or cause you to have concerns about their safety, talk to a doctor or mental health professional.

If you think you may be depressed, or have a friend who may be depressed, talk to a health care provider like your doctor, school nurse, or trusted adult. Don’t wait to get help.

 

It is important to note that teenage depression is not a sign of weakness or a flaw in character; it cannot be overcome with strength or willpower. Most people with depression need long-term treatment to get better and manage the consequences of this mental disorder. Specifically, medication and psychological counseling can provide some ease with the symptoms of depression.

 

Teenage depression for black youth

For African American youth, teenage depression is notably different in the causes, perceptions, and treatment. Mental health professionals outline the specific challenges that young black men face that can negatively impact their mental health. In addition to lacking the resources, information, and space to process and talk about their emotions, young black men are often celebrated only for their bodies, looks, and abilities, and not their brains.

These expectations of young black men leave little room for recognition and value of their brains, particularly their emotional intelligence. As the mental and emotional health of young black men is not honored and respected by society, they are susceptible to unique obstacles in getting the treatment they need for conditions like depression.

Researchers agree that African American youth face significant unmet needs regarding treatment for depression. Researchers have found that these unmet needs could be the result of black youth having a lack of willingness to trust peers, adults, and clinicians.

In a recent study, African American youth report that these adult figures do not understand them, make ineffective efforts to relate to them, or betray their trust. As a result, researchers found that African American youth, particularly boys, tend to not seek help from adults and feel as though they can handle it on their own.

Because depression is a mental health condition that is not overcome by sheer strength, willpower, or desire, this approach is not only ineffective, but also troublesome. Mental health professionals explain that depressed young black men, without adequate treatment and support, can seem shut down or, at its worst, display outward expressions of aggression.

 

Helping our teens cope with depression

In addition to getting support from a doctor or mental health professionals trained to work with adolescents, there are actionable and effective strategies to help your teenager cope with depression. These strategies include:

 

  • Letting your son know that you want to know how he is feeling and that you are available to talk. Even if he is not ready to talk to you right now, knowing that you care and that you are interested in his well being is helpful. Ask what will work for him, and brainstorm ways to deal with his feelings on a day-to-day basis.
  • Encouraging your teenager to keep up with his daily activities. Even if it is for shorter periods of time, or less often, help your teenager participate in the activities that he enjoys. Staying busy, doing things that help him relax, and keeping in touch with others that he likes and trusts is especially important at this time.
  • Preventing your teenager from isolating themselves from their family and friends. Help him identify a few trusted people, whether they are family members, friends or peers, and encourage your son to keep in touch with someone at least once a day.
  • Providing opportunities for your son to get some form of exercise multiple times a week. Being active and healthy can improve your teen’s mood. Additionally, make sure he has opportunities to keep his sleep schedule and regular diet.
  • Suggesting that he keeps a journal to express himself. Writing and drawing can help teens identify and process what they are feeling, in addition to creating an outlet for self-improvement. It is important to respect your son’s expression and creative process – allow this journal to be for his eyes only, unless he would like to share.
  • Maintain respect for your son’s feelings and emotions by protecting his privacy. While you should be readily available to talk with your son about his mental health, this should not be blatant, obvious special treatment.

 

There is an urgent need to champion black mental wellness, especially for our boys. In response, The Blue Heart Foundation remains committed to promoting high self‐esteem, emotional well being and a positive sense of self. We strive to create opportunities for self‐expression, reflection and self‐understanding through the development of relationships with other Blue Heart members and our community. Learn more about the H.E.A.R.T. Academy here.

 

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

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Human Sex Trafficking: A Little Too Close To Home

Human Sex Trafficking: A Little Too Close To Home

by | Community

In our monthly Blue Heart workshop, Armand King, former pimp and present-day COO of Paving Great Futures, uncovers the realities of human sex trafficking.  According to a recent estimate from the International Labor Organization and the Walk Free Foundation, there are 4.8 million people currently trapped in forced sexual exploitation globally. For context, that is almost the entire population of New Zealand and Ireland.

In the United States, it is estimated that almost 200,000 human trafficking incidents occur every year. Shockingly, California consistently has the highest human trafficking rates in the country. Armand King, former Pimp and now COO of Paving Great Futures, a nonprofit that is dedicated to increasing the health and wealth in underserved communities in order for marginalized and at risk individuals to thrive socially, economically, and politically, educated us on the realities of human sex trafficking in our own community in this month’s virtual enrichment workshop.

As someone who understands the brutality of the streets, King brings real world experience and knowledge of human sex trafficking to Paving Great Futures. Providing comprehensive work experience programs that transform misguided young people into productive and empowered community leaders capable of guiding relevant and lasting changes.

Dedicating his life to guiding others out of the prison pipeline, criminal activities, and human sex trafficking, he believes that it’s important to have open discussions in the communities that would benefit the most from this knowledge.

 

 

King openly shares his personal story and perspective of the pimping and prostitution subculture in San Diego to uncover the real impacts on communities of color and prevent people from getting into this illicit economy.

What is human sex trafficking?

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security defines human trafficking as the use of force, fraud, or coercion to obtain some type of labor or commercial sex act. Human trafficking can occur in any community, and victims can be of any age, race, gender, or nationality.

Typically, traffickers use violence or manipulation to lure victims into trafficking situations. There are many factors that keep human sex trafficking a hidden yet rampant crime, including language barriers and economic hardship.

As a result, there is a deeply rooted history of human sex trafficking in low-income communities, which is often made worse with the current criminalization of both the survivors and traffickers. However, for a long time, law enforcement turned a blind eye to this crime. King recalls that police officers even called him and his former colleagues by their “pimp names.” This is largely due to how the black pimp culture was established in society.

 

Human sex trafficking in the black community

In the 1970s, black pimps were not necessarily looked at as the bad guy. As depicted in Hollywood and blaxploitation films, pimps positively contributed to the community – giving money to kids, taking care of older community members, as well as sheltering, feeding and clothing young women.

But as the drug and gang epidemic of the 1980s and 1990s trickled down to San Diego from Los Angeles and the Bay Area, there was a major shift in the pimping game.

Lost, poorly-educated, and underserved populations devastated by the drug and gang epidemic often turned to pimping and prostitution as a way out of the poverty they grew up in. King describes this time as the “bling bling” era, when the focus was on getting money, having money, and spending money. Human sex trafficking became a falsely promising option for financial security and personal success in the streets.

 

Supporting underserved communities

Ultimately, the root of the human sex trafficking in the black community is the lack of resources, opportunities, and education to escape generational poverty. Too often, these dismal circumstances result in people staying in the game because they don’t know anything else or have access to other options.

To end sex trafficking completely, King believes that we must end poverty. As an economic-based crime, he believes that as long as there’s poverty, there will be sexual exploitation.

We recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic has devastated local and global economies, and with this new, tremendous financial hardship on families, the risks of human sex trafficking has increased. In response, The Blue Heart Foundation remains relentlessly dedicated to the education and empowerment of under-served youth in San Diego.

During these unusual times, The Blue Heart Foundation is here to help parents and students alike. Our hearts and thoughts go out to each and every one of you as we continue to navigate these strange, challenging times. To learn more about the history and current realities of human sex trafficking, watch a replay below of our workshop with Armand King

 

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

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Music To Improve Learning? How Hip Hop Beats Can Enhance Math Skills

Music To Improve Learning? How Hip Hop Beats Can Enhance Math Skills

by | Education

Using Music To Improve Learning

Did you know you can use music to improve learning in one of the most difficult subjects for many young students… Math?

Read about this creative approach of using music and hip hop beats that will transform your student’s feelings about Math.

 

For many of us, back-to-school looks a little different this year. With students across the United States starting the 2020-2021 academic school year from home, many parents are finding themselves more and more involved in their student’s school day.

 

The Blue Heart Foundation is committed to helping our students and their families thrive during this time. We host virtual monthly enrichment workshops to provide a community of academic support. In our last virtual workshop, we learned how we can help students approach difficult concepts using the tools they know best.

 

The Blue Heart Foundation discovered that learning math can actually be enjoyable and fun, after exploring how beats can help us understand math concepts in our virtual workshop. While it can be difficult for many students to remember the rules and properties of mathematical concepts, it is much easier for them to remember the lyrics or the beat of a song.

 

Dr. Rob Rubalcaba a.k.a DJ Professor Shadow, an associate professor at San Diego City College, hosted a virtual workshop that is built on this thinking. In his workshop, Dr. Rob showed us how he uses hip-hop to teach mathematics in a fun and educational way.

 

Music To Improve Learning | Math is the Foundation of Music.

Music is built on the foundation of mathematical laws, by using counts to provide a framework for how beats sound and how the rhythm comes together. Patterns of sound come together to create the beats and rhythm that we love and listen to all the time. While some pieces of music have more evident mathematical structures than others, we can find mathematical rhythm and patterns in the songs we hear every day. For example, a whole music note is four beat measures, and fractions like ½ ¼, or ⅛ are often used as notation. When songs bring counts together, we can use multiplication to identify how the rhythm is aligned. Division divides up different beats, allowing for integration and disintegration throughout the song.

 

Music To Improve Learning | Music Helps Students Think about Math Differently.

Not only do music and math both share a foundation of patterns, they also have a foundation of repetition in common. And as repetition is crucial to committing something to memory, it becomes clear how music can enhance learning and comprehension of mathematical concepts. Educators support that music can aid in the development of academic skills and enhance aspects of the curriculum. Additionally, researchers found that music improves spatial temporal reasoning skills, which is important for math concepts like proportional reasoning and geometry.

 

As research shows, integrating music into learning can be especially helpful for students with musical inclinations and strong hearing. Leveraging music effectively in learning doesn’t require extensive training or expensive equipment – you just need a song or rhythm instrument and accompanying music notes and mathematical figures. This easy and creative teaching approach is welcome in a time where students are becoming more independent in their studies as a result of distance learning.

 

 

Watch The Workshop With Dr. Rob.

Music To Improve Learning | Using Music in Teaching is a Student-Centered Approach.

It’s important for educators, students, and parents alike to consider different teaching strategies when necessary. Using another instructional approach signals to students that they can achieve anything with persistence. Allowing students to understand how they learn best and how they can teach themselves is crucial to the success of distance learning. To do this, we must focus on the individual needs, abilities, and learning styles of students as it relates to what they are learning. Then, instead of becoming stuck or frustrated, students will learn how to make it work for them without giving up.

 

With distance learning quickly becoming the new normal, student-centered teaching is more important than ever. Unlike the traditional learning model, where the teacher is at the center in an active role, distance learning requires students to be active and responsible participants in academic instruction. We encourage students, parents and educators to think outside the box for creative strategies like using music to help with math during this challenging time. This strategy will also prepare students for the distractions and uncertainties of post-secondary life, whether that is at college or throughout their adulthood in general.

 

While this upcoming school year will look different than last year, we are confident that your son can maintain his academic success with ongoing support. During these unusual times, The Blue Heart Foundation is here to help parents and students alike. Our hearts and thoughts go out to each and every one of you as we start this school year. Learn more about how we support our students with programs and resources here.

 

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

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Back to School: COVID-19 Edition

Back to School: COVID-19 Edition

by | Education, Family

In person, Distance Learning or Hybrid? Keeping Your Son Engaged

 

This fall, going back to school will be very different for many students across the country. With the current coronavirus health and safety concerns, many school districts are considering distance learning and/or hybrid classroom models for this upcoming school year.

This week, the San Diego Unified School District announced that it will adopt strict standards to protect students, staff, and the community from the spread of COVID-19 this upcoming school year. As a result, the timeline to reopen San Diego schools for in-class instruction will likely take months.

As we continue to follow the guidance from our county, we recognize the challenges of distance learning that both students and parents may face this school year. To help our community kick off this academic year with success, we’ve compiled comprehensive Back to School strategies to help our students thrive and make the 2020-2021 school year the best yet.

We cover the latest strategies on keeping your children engaged in distance learning at home as well as preparing students for hybrid or in-class learning at school.

 

Continue reading for expert advice on how to help your child stay engaged with distance learning this upcoming school year.

 

 

1.  Monitor your child’s pace

The transition to distance learning will be different for every student. Monitor your child’s pace in keeping up with the class curriculum, especially if your household has limited to no access to reliable internet or a device designated for your child’s use. In that case, work with your school to adjust the curriculum and/or expectations to ensure your child receives equitable classroom instruction.

 

2.  Balance core subjects with other learning experiences

In addition to monitoring your student’s pace, experts suggest balancing core subjects with other learning experiences to relieve some of the pressure to catch up or stay on track with the planned class curriculum and account for the realities of distance learning.

 

3.  Establish a routine that includes breaks

The key to sustaining your child’s engagement is establishing a set routine that he can depend on in the midst of the current coronavirus outbreak uncertainty. Factor in time for breaks and refreshing activities so your child will have an enjoyable routine that provides structure during the school day.

 

4.  Encourage movement throughout the day

Including breaks in your child’s routine will also allow for physical movement throughout the school day. Experts suggest allowing time for exercise before your child’s focus is required on a distance learning task. Additionally, consider a raised surface so your child can alternate sitting and standing while doing schoolwork.

 

5.  Schedule time to connect with classmates

Unlike in-person learning, your child will not have conversations between classes or at lunch that provide social enrichment to the school day. Schedule time for your child to connect with classmates to keep him engaged with the school beyond his classroom lessons.

 

6.  Seek real-time interaction with teachers

In addition to connecting with classmates, real-time interaction with teachers will increase classroom engagement for your child.

 

7.  Help him self-direct

As parents, we must balance our own work schedules with our child’s school schedule, so it is important that our children are able to self-direct throughout the day. Using checklists could help your child stay focused and engaged during school hours with minimal guidance from you.

 

8.  Maintain a distraction-free zone

In addition to checklists, a distraction-free zone is needed to keep your child engaged in distance learning. The CDC recommends a space at home that is free of distractions during school hours.

 

9.  Consider a digital quarantine

A digital quarantine is a strategy that can limit distraction and keep your child’s attention on schoolwork. Parenting experts suggest limiting the use of their devices, other than what is needed to complete their work until designated breaks or when their work is done for the day.

 

10. Manage screen time

Further, too much screen time can have adverse impacts on your son’s brain, so experts suggest mixing it up for distance learning. Balance screen time with old school learning formats like textbooks, worksheets or other printouts.

 

11. Know your child’s learning style

The CDC also recommends being aware of your child’s learning style and ensuring that it is compatible with distance learning. Whether your child learns best in a visual or hands-on manner, that knowledge will help you work with him and his teacher to accommodate his learning needs at home.

 

12. Make it enjoyable

Knowing your child’s favorite activities as well as their preferred learning style can make distance learning much more enjoyable for all parties. Going back to school brings excitement that can fuel academic success for your child. Keep that momentum going by incorporating the tasks that he likes to do into his daily school schedule.

 

13. Provide immediate positive feedback

As your schedule allows, provide immediate positive feedback to your child. Researchers say that something as simple as a check mark can go a long way in motivating your child.

 

14. Keep in touch with teachers, staff, and other parents for support

Distance learning can bring a higher level of parental involvement, which makes it important for parents to also receive feedback and support on the best way to help their child with new concepts. Keeping in touch with teachers, staff, and other parents will provide you with a support network to help you work through challenges and contribute to your son’s academic success.

 

15. Use behavioral health and emotional support resources

Pediatric experts recommend using mental health support that schools provide to help students who are struggling with stress from the pandemic or who are showing signs of anxiety or distress. These resources will help your child get the support they need to put their best foot forward this school year.

 

Preparing For Hybrid or In-Class Instruction

As the coronavirus situation continues to evolve, parents should also prepare for hybrid and in-class learning instruction. Read on for back to school strategies for reopening schools.

 

 

16.  Have conversations about COVID-19

With so much visible concern about reopening schools, your student may have stress or anxiety about returning to school. Having ongoing conversations about the latest coronavirus situation is a great way to ease those feelings and provide him with more certainty. For tips to guide your conversation, check out our blog post here.

 

17.  Highlight the benefits of in-class learning

In those conversations, be sure to highlight the benefits of in-class learning. Experts stress that schools provide more than just academics to children; they allow students to develop social and emotional skills, get exercise, and have access to mental health support.

 

18.  Remind him of his resilience

Soothe his fears and anxieties by reminding him of his resilience and all that he has accomplished in his academic career so far. It could also be helpful to incorporate findings from the CDC that suggest that children are less likely to get COVID-19 than adults, and when they do get COVID-19, they generally have less serious illness than adults.

 

19.  Remind him that he’s not alone

Additionally, remind your son that he is not alone. Let him know that it is a team effort with his parents, teachers, and the district to have safe in-class instruction this school year.

 

20.  Reinforce healthy habits at home

Reinforcing healthy habits at home, like hand hygiene, will help you and your child both feel more prepared to go back to school for in-class learning.

 

21.  Allow him to adjust to the new normal

With any changes, children need time to adjust. Give him time and space to understand that this is the new normal and provide an adjustment period. Then, the focus will be less on how different things are this school year, and more on how to navigate the present moment.

 

While this upcoming school year will look different than last year, we are confident that your son can maintain his academic success with ongoing support. During these unusual times, The Blue Heart Foundation is here to help parents and students alike. Our hearts and thoughts go out to each and every one of you as we start this upcoming school year. Learn more about how we support our students with programs and resources here.

Together We Rise!

Together We Rise!

 

 

At The Blue Heart Foundation, we believe in empowering African American boys by equipping them with more than just academic knowledge. Our mission is to nurture a strong, positive mindset, instill the value of higher education, and introduce the transformative wisdom of metaphysical principles. We are committed to helping these young leaders develop the confidence, critical thinking skills, and spiritual grounding they need to overcome obstacles, excel academically, and lead with purpose.

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

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