Embedding The Alchemy Method in NYC Classrooms:
George Jackson Academy Pilot 2024-2026
George Jackson Academy
George Jackson Academy (GJA) is New York City's only independent middle school for academically talented boys from families of all incomes. The school’s calling is to transform lives by challenging students’ minds, nurturing their hearts, and empowering them to be leaders and change-makers.
Collaboration
After 20 years of successful, proven implementation in public school settings in both Akron and Cleveland, Ohio, Alchemy is excited to continue this proven intervention in New York City.
In response to academic gaps that are too prevalent for these demographic groups, George Jackson Academy has a proven track record of helping students achieve exceptional results at high-performing high schools and colleges. By embedding Alchemy’s mentoring program within the school, students are offered additional coping tools that help keep them on track for future success, despite the challenges they inevitably face while in middle school and beyond.
The Goal
To complete a 3-year NYC pilot assisting in the development of urban youth through the telling, discussion, and analysis of mythological stories.
This year (academic year 2023-24), Alchemy began implementation of four pilot mentoring groups in two New York City schools.
Two groups of students in grade 6 and two in grade 8 are participating in the supportive in-school “circles”, modeled after Alchemy’s award-winning format.Founder and Executive/Program Director Dr. Kwame Scruggs is facilitating the pilot groups, and the NYC response – from school leadership and students alike – has exceeded any hopes and dreams for the pilot.
100% student participation for both grade levels quickly fostered a strong sense of connection and support among the mentees/peers, and both school administrations.With adequate funding, Dr. Scruggs will complete the full 3-year pilot with George Jackson Academy.
Working with current grade 6 students over two more school years (through academic year 2025 – 26) as they transition to grades 7 and 8.
Reaching our NYC Goals
To sustain the 3-year pilot, we must raise funds to deliver years 2 and 3 to George Jackson students. This is an essential first step to laying a solid foundation for the program in NYC.
Alchemy, Inc. supported the year 1 pilot through board-approved funding from its own operating reserves, and is now seeking local NYC support to continue the effort. Continuation for at least two more years is critical to demonstrating the program’s impact in NYC (with long-term exposure a key element of the Method).
The mission of George Jackson Academy is to educate high-achieving boys, regardless of their families’ economic means, and to inspire courage, integrity, empathy and leadership. Students are presented with rigorous academic challenges that enable them to realize their highest potential. Founded in the Lasallian tradition — education of the head, the heart, and the spirit — the school is committed to graduating young men of character who excel in high school and beyond.
To support this collaboration please contact Susan Fulwiler: development@alchemyinc.net or click here to support the power of myth in NYC.
NYC Feedback
From School Leadership
“Alchemy is a concrete example of diversity, equity, and inclusion programming with a pluralistic vision.”
From our NYC Students, Cohort 1 - Grade 6
“It helped me understand my friends more.”
“I got to know myself better because all of the myths helped me discover what similarities I have with the characters and how to make them better.”
“My participation has helped me improve because it has helped me share my thoughts even if I am shy or in any
tough situation. It has also helped me ask for help when needed.”