MASTR Kids Programs

Leaders for Our Future!

This is a Math-Art-Science-Technology-Reading (M.A.S.T.R.) Program designed to address the SPPF mission of advancing literacy and helping to close the achievement gap for our students. The program’s focus is on academic enrichment that nurtures future leaders.

Our students are active though we are not a recreational program. We understand the connection between physical and cognitive development. We believe leadership requires overall health – a Strong Mind and Body as well as a positive environment that builds self esteem.

A Culture Of Learning
With Five Key Elements

CERTIFIED TEACHERS AND EXPERIENCED ASSISTANTS

Each individual devoted to the mission. They are both inspired and inspiring. They believe each child is a capable learner and they help each child to embrace this fact about him/herself

SMALL CLASS SIZES

Classes of 12-14 students with adequate instruction support, i.e. a Teacher + one or two Assistants.

EVIDENCE-BASED

Our teachers design their literacy lesson plans with guidance from a well researched, evidence based core curriculum. We then use STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) lessons as a way of engaging students while enhancing/reinforcing skill development.

INTERVENTION FLEXIBILITY

We will do what works for the student. We have flexibility to address student-specific learning needs via small groups, 1:1 instruction, and/or alternate curriculum

OUTCOMES DRIVEN

We build clear outcomes measurement into the program using i-Ready Reading and Math Assessments. Students are taught to use their measurements to indicate areas of progress and areas where they should ask for help. Students and teachers share outcomes with parents to celebrate individual growth.

Making Learning Fun!

M.A.S.T.R. Kids Programs are held at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church – 3300 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712 and at Mount Zion Progressive Baptist Church.  Both locations are well known in the community and provide significant family programming. We believe the change of setting allows us to set expectations for behavior and performance that are unique to our environment and shared by students from different schools. Our culture mandates that this is a safe space where everyone is supported.

Our academic enrichment activities enhance self-esteem and encourage a love of learning. We also train students in key life skills (e.g. swimming, interviewing). We expose these future leaders to a broad array of experiences beyond their day-to-day community (e.g. field trips) by working with arts partners and community leaders. This is a fun way to learn!!

Ways You Can Help

Donate

Sponsor a student for the summer $2000; pay for a writing class $50. Anything you can afford helps us close the achievement gap for students!

Volunteer

Sponsor a student for the summer $2000; pay for a writing class $50. Anything you can afford helps us close the achievement gap for students!

Become a Partner

Sponsor a student for the summer $2000; pay for a writing class $50. Anything you can afford helps us close the achievement gap for students!

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Pam Williams

Chief Operating Officer

As COO, Pam ensures the organization’s financial, data, fundraising, and HR infrastructure is strong today and ready for scale that multiplies impact in the years ahead. Pam’s 30+ years of nonprofit experience started with the turnaround of an organization in financial crisis, leading to the launch of a consultancy providing training, transition, and turnaround services to nonprofits and associations in the US and East Africa. In 2016, Pam became COO/CFO for the first women’s college in Rwanda, leading an international team across 3 continents and overseeing administration, finance and operations as the business grew from 50 students to over 400. Pam’s work consistently reflects a commitment to equity.

Darren Hammond

Site Operations Leader

Darren Hammond is currently serving as the Site Operations Leader for the Shirley Proctor Puller Foundation. He is a graduate of Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education. He also holds a Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction, National Louis University, and an Education Specialist Degree (Ed. S) in Administration & Supervision, Nova Southeastern University. Darren spent 37 years with Pinellas County Schools transforming students to reach their ultimate learning potential using proven classroom strategies developed during his tenure in education. While working with Pinellas County Schools, he served as Teacher, Guidance counselor, Assistant Principal and as a Principal. Darren is a passionate educator who openly shares his love of learning with teachers, parents, and other educators! He was born and raised in St. Petersburg, Florida.

Keisha Snead

Academic Leader

B.S. in Elementary Education,Cum Laude, FAMU 1996

I have served 24 years within the Elementary school setting in various instructional roles.  I have also served as the Mentor Coordinator for new and returning teachers. 


I have led professional development for faculty at several schools within Pinellas County.  I have coached colleagues in the understanding and delivery of the standards of reading and writing.  My love for learning is what drives my passion for teaching.  When I look into the eyes of a scholar who needs me, that is where I find my passion!