When communities invest in education, they invest in hope, opportunity, and the next generation of leaders. Every child deserves a community that believes in their potential and helps provide the tools, support, and guidance they need to succeed.
FCS has long been part of that work, from supporting the development of the Wesley International Academy Charter School and the Atlanta Youth Academy Private Christian School to now partnering with Purpose Built Schools Atlanta to strengthen the Carver Cluster. Over time, our efforts have evolved as we’ve learned what works best for our community, guiding us toward a more coordinated, strategic approach to education.
As a Community Quarterback organization, we coordinate with educational partners to ensure that children have access to high-quality learning opportunities without having to leave their community, while also preparing them to succeed in opportunities beyond the neighborhood.
Introducing Dr. Kyeko Henderson, Director of Education
To lead this important work, we are thrilled to welcome Dr. Kyeko Henderson as our new Director of Education. With 14 years of experience spanning classroom teaching and school leadership, Dr. Henderson brings both expertise and passion for equitable education.
“Education has saved my life more than once,” he shares. “It’s always been my safe space—the place where I felt seen and validated, where I excelled, where I found hope. I want every child to experience that same sense of possibility, to see where education can take them. And I want to help parents feel equipped to guide their children on that journey.”
Our Vision for Cradle to Career Education
We envision the Carver Cluster as a vibrant ecosystem where:
- Every Child has a strong social, emotional, and academic foundation and is prepared for a lifelong journey of learning.
- Parents are empowered and equipped as their child’s first teacher.
- Teachers are supported, valued, and committed to a long-term career within the community.
- The Community is a powerful, integrated partner in student success.
A Focus on Early Learning
Our youngest residents are a priority. Research shows that more brain development occurs between birth and age three than during the rest of childhood combined. Yet, in the 30315 footprint, there are only eight early childhood centers. That’s a 540-seat deficit for families seeking high-quality care, and with continued neighborhood growth, the demand for early learning options will only increase.
This shortage has made one thing clear: families need more available, accessible, affordable, and adequate early learning options right here in their neighborhood.
To better understand those needs, we’ve now hosted three Community Playdates in Historic South Atlanta and Thomasville Heights for families with young children. These weren’t just fun gatherings; they were listening sessions where families shared their needs, educators gathered insights, and partners began shaping a shared vision for the future of early education.
Building on these insights, we are working to expand early learning opportunities through our Early Learning Campaign, in partnership with the United Way of Greater Atlanta’s Learning Spaces Program and the Villages of Carver YMCA. By combining data-driven strategies with strong partnerships, we are committed to ensuring that every child in the Carver Cluster has the resources and support needed to succeed academically and personally.
Through this campaign, we aim to:
- Increase awareness around early childhood education.
- Strengthen existing neighborhood providers.
- Add high-quality early learning opportunities without competing with current programs.
We also understand that the stress experienced by mothers during pregnancy and in the early weeks of parenting has a profound impact on child development, so we work to support expectant and new mothers through this crucial period.
This is just the beginning. By strengthening existing facilities, opening new spaces, and engaging parents and community partners, we are building a foundation that will carry children from cradle to career.
Building a Culture of Opportunity
Education at FCS doesn’t stop at early learning. From advocating for high-quality programming in neighborhood schools, to providing wraparound supports for families, to creating pathways for youth leadership and career readiness, our approach recognizes that learning happens in the context of community. Stable housing, economic opportunity, and neighborhood health all intersect to create conditions where children and families can thrive.
Dr. Henderson sums it up: “This work isn’t just about one group. It’s about building an ecosystem where families, teachers, students, and school staff are all connected. Through workshops, networking, and shared learning, we can create spaces for everyone to engage, share knowledge, and work together to improve the quality of education for our kids.”
