Dear Operation Xcel Students, Families, Sponsors, Donors, and Mentors,

As the new school year begins, I am thrilled to welcome you back and celebrate the energy and possibilities that come with returning to school. This is a special time to set new goals, reconnect with friends and mentors, and lay the foundation for a year filled with growth and achievement.

To help our students succeed, I encourage you all—parents, sponsors, and the entire Operation Xcel “village”—to stay engaged and supportive throughout the year. Financial contributions, scholarships, and material donations make a tremendous difference by ensuring students have the resources they need. Mentorship programs and internship opportunities help our young people gain valuable skills and insights for their future careers. Sponsors and donors who support after-school events and activities create memorable learning experiences, while those who raise awareness about the importance of education help keep our community focused on success.

To prepare your student for a successful year, set clear routines at home, promote healthy study habits, and encourage participation in school activities. Stay connected with teachers and mentors, and never hesitate to reach out for support. Our collective commitment to collaboration and encouragement will help every student stay motivated and focused on their goals.  We have 3 sections below, each contains tips to help students be successful in school and after school.  

Thank you for being an essential part of our Operation Xcel family. Together, we can inspire excellence and help our students achieve their full potential. Here’s to a fantastic school year ahead! 

P.S.  Did you enroll your student in our Operation Homework afterschool program?  Operation Homework Starts September 15th. 

With excitement and gratitude,

Charlene Gladney, MEE

Executive Director, Operation Xcel

1.  Believe in Yourself: Remember, challenges are like puzzles that help you grow! When something is tough, think of it as a chance to learn something new.  Challenges can enhance personal growth (Dweck, 2006).

2.  Set Fun Goals: Make a list of things you want to achieve this school year—like finishing a book, getting better at math, or joining a club. Goals give you direction! Setting specific and challenging goals can improve motivation (Locke & Latham, 2002).

3.  Build Your Team: Find friends, family, and teachers who motivate you. Surround yourself with people who cheer you on when you succeed and help you when you need it. Support from peers and mentors significantly contributes to success (Hattie & Timperley, 2007).

4.  Manage Your Time: Use a planner or a calendar. Write down your homework, projects, and fun activities so you can balance everything and don’t feel rushed. Effective time management leads to better academic performance (Britton & Tesser, 1991).

5.  Bounce Back: Everyone makes mistakes; that’s just part of learning! Don’t let a setback stop you—think of it as a chance to try again. Resilience can be developed through overcoming setbacks (Masten, 2001).

6.  Stay Curious: Explore new hobbies or subjects you love. Read books, watch videos, or ask questions! The world is full of exciting things to discover. A growth mindset fosters curiosity and a love for learning (Dweck, 2006).

7.  Ask for Help: If you’re confused about something in school, don’t be shy! Ask your teacher or a classmate for help. It's okay to ask questions! Seeking help is an important aspect of the learning process (Hattie, 2009).

8.  Take Care of You: Make sure to eat healthy snacks, get enough sleep, and play outside. Taking care of your body and mind helps you feel great!  Physical well-being positively influences academic success (Basch et al., 2014).

9.  Join In: Get involved in school clubs, sports teams, or community service projects. It’s a great way to make friends and learn new skills. Participation in extracurricular activities enhances social skills and academic performance (Fredricks & Eccles, 2006).

10.  Celebrate Your Wins: Whether you aced a test or learned something new, celebrate your achievements—big or small! Pat yourself on the back to keep you motivated. Acknowledging achievements boosts self-esteem and motivation (Schunk, 2003).

Remember, every step you take helps you on your journey to success! Keep aiming high and have fun along the way!

A sponsor can show support for students' success in several impactful ways:

1. Financial Contributions: Providing scholarships, grants, or funding for educational programs can alleviate financial burdens for students and ensure access to necessary resources (Smith, 2022).

2. Mentorship Programs: Engaging employees or volunteers to mentor students can offer guidance, encouragement, and valuable insights into academic and career paths (Johnson & Lee, 2021).

3. Sponsoring Events: Supporting school events like science fairs, sports days, or educational workshops can foster a sense of community and provide students with memorable experiences (Brown, 2023).

4. Material Donations: Contributing supplies, books, or technology can enhance learning environments and ensure students have the tools they need to succeed (Taylor, 2020).

5. Internship Opportunities: Offering internships or work experience programs helps students gain practical skills and knowledge relevant to their future careers (Davis, 2021).

6. Promoting Awareness: Sponsors can raise awareness about the importance of education and student support through social media, newsletters, or community events (Martinez, 2022).

7. Collaborating with Schools: Partnering with schools to develop programs that meet students' needs can create a positive impact on education in the community (Clark & Walker, 2023) and https://21stcented.com/building-effective-school-community-partnerships-for-enhanced-learning-outcomes/.

By taking these steps, sponsors can play a vital role in enhancing students' educational experiences and promoting long-term success.