This fall, Fuse Project supported Pathway K–5 with a joyful awards celebration recognizing student growth in iReady, behavior, and attendance, made even more meaningful by the encouragement of dedicated faculty and volunteers. These moments of recognition helped build confidence, reinforce positive habits, and celebrate the hard work students are putting into their academic and personal growth.

The Avenue Swim Club brings vital, high-quality water safety and swim instruction to Florence Howard Elementary students through a three-session program delivered in partnership with CMSA and USA Swimming’s Community Impact Program. By removing barriers to access and providing consistent, skill-building lessons, Fuse Project is helping children in the Avenue community gain confidence, lifesaving abilities, and new opportunities to thrive.

This fall, students at Florence Howard Elementary participated in a wide range of engaging clubs, field trips, and family events through Fuse Project’s Academic Support program, each designed to spark creativity, confidence, and connection. These experiences not only supported academic growth but gave students opportunities to explore new interests, build practical skills, and feel celebrated for their hard work.

Fuse Project kicked off the school year by celebrating Avenue educators with thoughtful back-to-school appreciation events, from a warm Breakfast Gumbo gathering at Pathway K–5 to team-building outings at Dave & Buster’s for teachers at Florence Howard and Calloway-Smith. These efforts reflect our commitment to supporting and uplifting teachers, whose morale, collaboration, and well-being directly impact the success of students in the Avenue community.

SPARK Summer at Calloway-Smith Middle School gave students an unforgettable mix of learning, leadership, and hands-on fun through Math Camp, a field trip, and community partnerships. With support from dedicated teachers, volunteers, and sponsors, students built confidence, developed new skills, and ended the summer inspired to keep reaching higher.

SPARK Summer at Florence Howard Elementary School was filled with learning, creativity, and celebration as students explored art, science, gardening, cooking, and more through hands-on lessons and community partnerships. Thanks to dedicated teachers, volunteers, and sponsors, more than 130 students grew academically, built confidence, and ended the summer inspired to keep learning long after camp ended.

Fuse Project’s continued partnership with Mobile Arts Council and Amp Up Arts is expanding access to meaningful arts education for students in the Avenue community. Recent highlights include a discussion on Amplifying the Arts podcast about Strengthening Partnerships for Arts Education and our teaching artist Cherrelle Smith and Development Director Mary Frances Clarke being honored at the 20th Annual Arty Awards for their outstanding impact on arts and education.

Fuse Project’s spring 2025 Academic Support Program wrapped up the school year with heartfelt teacher appreciation efforts and engaging student incentives across our Avenue partner schools. From celebratory brunches and retirement tributes to academic rewards and end-of-year parties, every gesture reinforced our commitment to recognizing growth, fostering motivation, and building strong school communities.

Fuse Project honored Black History this year through a season of meaningful engagement, including community service on MLK Day, student art inspired by Black artists, cultural experiences like The Princess and the Frog, and a sponsored trip to Selma for the 60th anniversary of Bloody Sunday. These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to celebrating legacy, empowering youth, and building a stronger, more connected community.

During the 2025 Senior Bowl Community Day, future NFL players visited Florence Howard Elementary and Calloway-Smith Middle School to connect with students through classroom visits, Q&As, and personal stories that emphasized the value of education, resilience, and goal-setting. Made possible through a continued partnership with the Reese’s Senior Bowl, this inspiring day highlighted the power of community, mentorship, and meaningful exposure for children in Mobile’s Avenue neighborhood.