#iSupportEAST
Parent PROFILE
R
esearch tells us that having a supportive parent or family can significantly increase performance levels of students academically and socially. And while EAST is not an uncle, aunt, mom, or dad, to the students involved, we gladly take on the role of ally or advocate for the families that are committed to EAST and see the benefits of the program. Meet Kimberly Munns Johnson, one of the pastors at FaithSpring Church in Little Rock, mother of three, Olivia (15), Will (13) and Ava (11), and an avid supporter of EAST. We sat down with her to talk about her support for EAST and where it all began. As a parent, she has been able to see EAST in multiple school settings with what she described as diverse offerings and opportunities among schools. “My kids have all participated in EAST in a variety of levels at Don Roberts Elementary, Forest Heights STEM, and Pinnacle View Middle School. Between my three children, we have about ten years of involvement in EAST, plus my two years participating in EAST conference (I am “staying on” with EAST as a volunteer at Don Roberts, just because I am a fan of what Carman McBride is doing with some of our youngest EAST students)!” Kim first learned about EAST from her friend and mentor, Jim Kimzey, who was part of the early days in EAST. During their work together Jim recognized that Kim had a passion and willingness to cultivate teenagers through her youth ministry and that she recognized the importance of students being able to explore and innovate ways to better our world through technology. 6
EAST QUARTERLY | www.EASTinitiative.org
