Welcome
The C.A.L.M. Society
(Committed Advocates Leading Many)
Remembering Leah Minyon Dawes (2/15/1976 - 3/6/2021)
Leah Minyon Dawes
It is with a heavy heart that the C.A.L.M Society announces the passing of one of our "Parent of the Year" award recipients - Leah Minyon Dawes.
Leah transitioned on March 6, 2021, from a sudden illness after celebrating a birthday on February 15, 2021. She was such an incredible inspiration to anyone who met her and she loved children with all her heart.
One only had to mention young people with a need, and there you would find Leah. A mother of a teenager herself, Leah was found at dance school and volunteering for any event such as the Girl Scouts. She volunteered in her child’s school and in her community.
the calm society IS EXCITED TO welcome two new members!
Semonne Y. Culver
Semonne is a resident of Abington where she resides with her wonderful husband Gary and their lovely daughter Morgan. She is the Operations Assistant for a private Pharmaceutical Distribution Center. She is a pillar of her community for information and resources for families. Semonne leads the Community Outreach Ministry and serves as a Deaconess at the First Baptist Church of Crestmont. She also worked with the youth ministry for eight years. Semonne has a strong passion for helping or finding help for families in need. Semonne is looking forward to rolling up her sleeves to work aside her CALM Sisters to help others.
Quote: You must have compassion for people to do the work for people!
~Semonne Y. Culver
Atiyya Flournoy
I have worked in the healthcare industry for over 25 years. I currently work part time as a Seamless Access Specialist because I took a leap of faith in 2019 opening one of a few black owned beauty supply stores in Philadelphia, Pa. I currently hold a Bachelors degree in Business Administration, and a Paralegal Certificate. I am a wife, and mother of two children who are 24 and 14. I am a member of a prominent church where I have been a Congregational Care Giver and Greeter for over 10 years.
Prior to Covid, I started the risk management process to volunteer with the Delta Sigma Theta youth organizations where needed. When time allows I deliver meals on wheels. I believe wholeheartedly in helping others and supporting my community for the greater good of our people especially underserved African Americans.
THE NEIGHBORHOOD SCHOOL BUILDER:Parent/Guardian Involvement
Sophia Saunders
CALM Society Member and Philadelphia Resident
The resources mentioned in this article are based on the Philadelphia School District, but the information is general for any school district. These are just a few starters for parents and guardians to consider. Our children and school staff at all schools benefit so much when parents, guardians, and our community members are involved throughout the school year.
Every parent or guardian is encouraged to be involved with the Home and School Association (HSA), School Advisory Council (SAC), Parent - Teacher Association (PTA), or Friends group. Those are some of the groups that are crucial to the success of our schools. Consider giving your time, share your talents, and/or financial support/make purchases to partner with the teachers at your child’s school. Find out their needs, and how you and your community members can help them. For those students without a support system, we should try to assist them as much as possible to succeed too.
Pearls of Wisdom
Welcome to Pearls of Wisdom, a column that will provide simple tips and advice to families with children in schools. We will answer all questions wherever possible or guide you to where they are.
How to advocate for a child with learning disabilities
By Andrea Lawful Sanders
It can be daunting when we notice that our child may have a learning disability of some kind after observing them, so here is some advice that may help you moving forward.
As soon as you begin noticing discrepancies at home and school, address your concerns with the teacher, and start taking notes at home. Once the teacher puts extra supports in place, look for improvements in small ways as it takes time to see changes.