Empowering Parents and Supporting Children: The Impact of Project Ujima
As the clock struck 5:30 p.m., Morse High School stood silent and empty, save for two teens sharing a laugh over a phone video. The laughter echoed as I strolled through the deserted halls until I reached the auditorium.
Inside, the scene was bustling with young kids running around in excitement, while families enjoyed a meal of fried chicken and shared their stories. This was a gathering of Project Ujima, a program by San Diego Unified that guides parents through navigating education-related issues and preparing their children for success.
Resource teacher Lori LaPointe encouraged parents to jot down their goals for their children, emphasizing happiness, safety, health, and love. These goals, she stressed, are unique to each family and form the foundation of success for their kids.
Before delving into creating vision boards for their families, LaPointe tasked parents with a heartfelt homework assignment: to share their hopes and dreams with their children, fostering a sense of belief and support in their journey.
Project Ujima, derived from the principle of “collective work and responsibility” in Kwanzaa, was founded by Elneda Shannon to empower African American families in the educational system. The program, which welcomes families of all backgrounds, aims to break barriers hindering parental involvement in their children’s education.
From school visits to college exploration trips, Project Ujima provides tools and resources for families to navigate the education landscape effectively. They also incorporate Black history education to enrich cultural understanding and connection.
Challenges Ahead
However, recent budget cuts have threatened the continuity of Project Ujima, with several positions within the Family Engagement Department, including LaPointe’s, facing elimination. While the district assures of continued support, the program’s future remains uncertain.
Both LaPointe and Shannon express concerns about the impact of these cuts on supporting parents and nurturing the program’s community. The trust and relationships built over the years are now at risk due to the dwindling resources.
Building Trust and Nurturing Communities
Trust, as Shannon highlights, is the cornerstone of Project Ujima’s success. The program’s ability to connect with parents on a personal level and empower them to advocate for their children has garnered widespread praise and attention.
Despite the challenges, the spirit of Project Ujima lives on, fueled by the commitment of its team and the unwavering support of the community. As the program embarks on a new chapter under reduced staffing, the legacy of empowerment and community building remains at its core.
While the road ahead may be uncertain, the impact of Project Ujima on families and students continues to resonate, showcasing the power of collective work and responsibility in shaping brighter futures.
