News & Updates

Jumoke Academy: Our Story, In Print

Jumoke Academy: A Story in motion

At Jumoke Academy, the work is intentional.

You see it in how our classrooms are structured, how expectations are set, and how our scholars show up each day. Respectful. Responsible. Ready to learn. These aren’t just words we say. They shape the culture inside every campus.

What follows is a glimpse into what that looks like in practice.

It reflects the energy of our classrooms, the relationships between educators and scholars, and the consistency it takes to help every child grow. You’ll see moments of achievement, but more importantly, you’ll see the work behind it. The structure. The support. The belief that every scholar can meet high expectations when the environment is built for them to succeed.

At Jumoke, we believe academic excellence and care belong together. Because when a scholar feels supported, challenged, and seen, something shifts. Confidence grows. Curiosity expands. Possibility becomes real.

That is what it means to be a place where the child is loved.

What happens here is the result of people showing up every day with purpose. Educators, families, and partners all contributing to something that is built over time, not just celebrated in a single moment.

This is a glimpse into that work.
And it continues because a community chooses to invest in it.

2026 Award recipients

Kashay Green

Jumoke Academy proudly recognizes Kashay Green as the recipient of the Frank Williams Award, presented at our Harlem Nights Gala.

This award is given in honor of Mr. Franklin P. Williams III, whose passion for Jumoke Academy was evident in all that he did. He consistently put scholars first, approached every challenge with determination, and believed that no task was too big or too small when it came to supporting the community. 

Kashay Green embodies these same values. Her willingness to step in when needed, take initiative, and serve as a thoughtful problem-solver reflects a deep commitment to the success and well-being of our scholars and families. Through her dedication and action, she continues to strengthen the Jumoke Academy community in meaningful ways. 

We are honored to celebrate Kashay Green and her well-deserved recognition.

Zakiya DUnning

Jumoke Academy is proud to recognize Zakiya Dunning as the recipient of the Preserving Our Legacy Award, presented at our Harlem Nights Gala.

This award honors a non-certified staff member who carries forward the legacy of Thelma Ellis Dickerson each day within the classrooms and buildings of Jumoke Academy. It celebrates individuals who demonstrate a deep and lasting commitment to our scholars and who embody a true love for learning, education, and community.

Zakiya Dunning exemplifies these values through her dedication, care, and unwavering support of our scholars. Her presence and commitment help ensure that the spirit and legacy of Thelma Ellis Dickerson remain alive in all that we do.

We are honored to celebrate Zakiya Dunning and her meaningful impact on the Jumoke Academy community.

Jodi-Ann THelwell

Jumoke Academy is proud to recognize Jodi-Ann Thellwell as the recipient of the Educator Award, presented at our Harlem Nights Gala.

This award is given to a certified educator from any Jumoke Academy campus who embodies “Excellence in all things.” It honors educators who demonstrate unwavering dedication to the education of our scholars, while fully supporting both the mission of Jumoke Academy and the enduring legacy of Thelma Ellis Dickerson.

Jodi-Ann Thellwell exemplifies this standard of excellence through her commitment, professionalism, and passion for student success. Her work reflects a deep belief in our scholars and a steadfast dedication to their growth and achievement.

We are honored to celebrate Jodi-Ann Thellwell and her outstanding contributions to the Jumoke Academy community.

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