Pace Academy Launches Verano Sin Límites

(Editor's note: The following information was submitted by Pace Academy. To submit your school news, email buckhead@patch.com.)

recently hosted the inaugural session of Verano Sin Límites (translated Summer Without Limits), a four-week educational experience that promotes academic excellence for Hispanic/Latino middle school students.

The program, in partnership with the Brookhaven Boys & Girls Clubs and funded by a generous grant from The Goizueta Foundation, included workshops in sports, art, health and nutrition, math, science, leadership and language study, as well as cultural activities. Campers also participated in off-campus excursions, such as a trip to White Water Park and a low ropes course.

“The intention behind our summer initiative was to partner with Boys and Girls Club to support academic excellence in the Hispanic/Latino community,” said Philip McAdoo, director of Diversity. “Pace Academy faculty, staff and students rallied behind this initiative to create a quality experience for the students and their families.”

Sixteen campers took part in Verano Sin Límites, and Pace Academy students and faculty served as camp coordinators and counselors. Camp counselors blogged about their experience at knightlife.paceacademy.org/verano.

Verano Sin Límites is part of Pace Academy’s Hispanic/Latino Initiative, created in November 2011. Made possible by a three-year grant from The Goizueta Foundation, the program offers educational opportunities for Hispanic/Latino students enrolled at Pace Academy. It is part of the school’s overall Diversity Initiative, which prepares students to succeed in an ever-changing and diverse world; encourages a diverse and inclusive school culture; and engages students, parents and faculty through diversity programming and dialogue.

“The Verano Sin Límites program made such a positive impact on our kids and our club,” said Ziggy Asfaw, executive director of the Brookhaven Boys & Girls Club.

“The children came back from camp every day full of joy and excitement, talking about what they had learned and the fun that they had. This program has a great balance of incorporating healthy habits, character development and education. We are extremely grateful for the experience Verano Sin Límites has provided.”

The mission of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Atlanta is to save and change the lives of children and teens, especially those who need them most, by providing a safe, positive and engaging environment and programs that prepare and inspire them to achieve Great Futures.