Stories of Hope: School year offers 4th grader chance to grow
For 4th grader Karter Taylor, this school year has been full of learning, new responsibilities, and chances to grow.
As a Royal Court student at Palm Terrace Elementary, he works hard to do his best both in class and in the activities he loves. Joining the Lemerand Center of Excellence tutoring program has helped him stay focused and more confident with his schoolwork. When he gets stuck, his teachers are there to explain things and cheer him on, so he feels ready to tackle work that used to be tough.
School has also become a place where Karter can shine in other ways. He is the drum leader for the Drumline, a role he's proud of. He enjoys practicing the routines, working as a team, and being part of something important. He has made new friends and likes having a daily routine that makes school fun and meaningful.
At home, this season has brought both good times and hard ones. The holidays are usually special for the Taylor family — they cook their favorite foods, spend time together, and enjoy traditions that make them happy. But this year has been harder because Karter's great-grandmother has been very sick. It has made the whole family worried, and some days feel a lot tougher than usual.
Karter thinks about her often and hopes she gets better soon. He sees how much stress it puts on his mom, who is helping take care of his great-grandmother while still looking after him and his siblings. Even though things have been difficult, it has helped Karter appreciate the little moments they share as a family and made him more thankful for the time they have together.
Karter is especially grateful for his mom. He sees how hard she works to make sure he and his siblings have everything they need, even when money is tight or the days feel overwhelming. Her strength is what keeps their family going. She always reminds them not to worry about what they don't have, but to be thankful for the blessings they do have.
About this series: FBH Community fosters programs that tackle the root causes of generational poverty. Its initiatives include Food Brings Hope's KidsZone, TeenZone, FBHonors, Change the Code, and the Lemerand Center of Excellence at Daytona State College. Other FBHC programs include VCan, focused on ending hunger and homelessness among youth and families with children; Homes Bring Hope, which creates homeownership opportunities for working families; and the Prosperity Initiative, helping families achieve stability and advancement. Because the Hosseini Family Foundation covers the overhead costs, 100% of donations directly support programs and families. This holiday season, The News-Journal is spotlighting FBH Community by sharing stories from its participants and families. To contribute or donate a holiday gift, visit FBHCommunity.org, email info@FBHCommunity.org or call 386-317-5767 .
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Stories of Hope: School year offers 4th grader chance to grow
