Deidra Jones, our dedicated education assistant who joined the Learning for Leadership Charter School staff in January of 2007 has died today at the hospital. Deidra was our first school volunteer, joining us on Oct.10th 2006 – just a month into our first year. Each week, she came a couple days and spent time primarily with the older students. In January 2007, the school offered her a full time position assisting teaching staff. Her many years of experience with youth programs enabled her to be a highly effective teacher with our youth. While her recovery from surgery sometimes interfered with a full day effort this year, Deidra was at school with students on a daily basis. Just last month, Deidra organized a full school Black History Month celebration – an assembly which included all ages of students presenting thoughts on freedom and celebrating diversity; featuring music, dance, poetry & especially memorable was the skit when she played the role of a student learning about our school. At the last staff meeting she attended, she said that she “loved this school”. Well, the students and staff loved her, too. Early next week, staff and students will take time to remember her wonderful example of living for others. Sincerely, Stephanie Dess, Director & the staff of Learning for Leadership Charter School