Thanks to the generous support of Oakland Hills Country Club, Plum Hollow Country Club, and Red Run Golf Club, Cornerstone Schools continues to fulfill its mission of helping students live a Complete Life – a virtuous life, a life of excellence, in pursuit of the American Promise. As Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. taught, such a life is defined by length (living with purpose), breadth (being for others), and height (knowing God).
One student’s story speaks volumes about this mission in action.
Darren, a new member of the Cornerstone family this year, entered school performing well below grade level. Quiet and reserved, he often tried to go unnoticed. After taking his I-Ready Fall Diagnostic Assessment, Darren qualified for Tier 3 Reading Intervention and began receiving intensive phonics and reading instruction five days a week.
His growth was remarkable. Darren’s confidence soared, and his desire to learn became unstoppable. He gained 64 points on his I-Ready Winter Diagnostic, surpassing both his typical and stretch growth goals in just a few months. He achieved a full year’s progress in reading and comprehension and mastered the highest level of high-frequency words.
Darren’s transformation extended beyond academics. He emerged as a leader, helping plan a holiday celebration for fellow struggling readers and becoming a buddy reader for 1st grade students, eager to share what he had learned.
He is, in every sense, a different student – more confident, more capable, and more committed to lifting others as he grows.
Eagles for Children is proud to support Cornerstone Schools and students like Darren – children who are not only improving their own lives, but already reaching out to improve the lives of others.
