Alpha Academy October Session Recap: Building Confidence, Creativity, and STEM Skill

On Saturday, October 12, 2025, the Alpha Academy Mentoring Program launched its first full session of the school year with a morning filled with fellowship, learning, and hands-on exploration.

The day began with breakfast and a joint discussion on Building Confidence and Self-Esteem, where mentors led activities designed to help mentees recognize their self-worth, strengthen their mindset, and put confidence-building habits into daily practice.

During this opening session, the Academy proudly recognized Savion Spruill for his acceptance into Bowie State University, celebrating his achievement as a shining example of academic excellence and perseverance. Each mentee received a take-home handout reinforcing the day’s lessons on self-confidence and personal growth.

At 10:30 a.m., mentees transitioned into their grade-specific breakout sessions, continuing the day’s theme of leadership and discovery through engaging, age-appropriate activities.

Elementary School Program – Exploring STEM Through Teamwork

The Elementary cohort kicked off the year with a dynamic introduction to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Mentors explained how STEM fields open doors to rewarding, high-demand careers and strengthen problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.

Students then collaborated to build prototype wagon models, learning how teamwork and creativity help bring ideas to life. This hands-on, project-based approach reflects Alpha Academy’s belief that young minds learn best by doing—experimenting, testing, and refining ideas together.

Middle School Program – Pinewood Derby & Drone Innovation

The Middle School group began with an overview of the Pinewood Derby Program, led by Bro. Michael Askins and Bro. Jermaine Wilson, Mentors outlined the year’s timeline (October through May) and discussed core focus areas—sportsmanship, confidence, resilience, and STEM application—as students prepare to design, assemble, and test their race cars.

Afterward, students joined the Drone and Aviation Program for a flight demonstration, connecting lessons in engineering and aerodynamics to real-world applications. Mentors explained that new mentees will begin with the Pinewood Derby, while returning students will advance through the Drone track, ensuring a balanced and progressive learning experience.

Drone and Aviation Program – Taking Learning to New Heights

Led by Bro. Dr. Adrian Hood, Sr. and Bro. Jamaal Whaley, the Drone and Aviation session introduced mentees to drone technology, flight safety, and competitive flying. After reviewing the Aerial Drone Competition framework and last year’s highlights, mentees demonstrated steady flight maneuvers and showcased strong control skills.

Students were divided into two teams—the Red Wings and the Sky Hawks—to complete hands-on flight challenges. The day ended with a drone speed test, where each team measured, timed, and calculated the top forward speed of their drones, reinforcing lessons in math, physics, and data analysis.

The excitement in the room was contagious as mentees began connecting classroom concepts with real-world technology—literally watching STEM come to life.

High School Program – Charting the Path Forward

The High School cohort focused on Personal Development through a session titled “Which Way Now?” Mentors guided students in exploring multiple post-high-school pathways—college, trade and vocational schools, licensing programs, and direct workforce opportunities.

Discussions centered on career planning, financial literacy, and goal setting. Seniors received guidance on completing the FAFSA, applying for scholarships, and identifying realistic college choices based on fit and affordability. The message was clear: success has many paths, but each requires preparation, vision, and persistence.

Looking Ahead

The October session perfectly embodied the mission of Alpha Academy—to empower young men through mentorship, education, and leadership development.

From building wagons and flying drones to mapping out future careers, mentees strengthened their confidence, creativity, and curiosity—key traits that will serve them well in every stage of life.

Alpha Academy remains committed to nurturing the next generation of thinkers, builders, and leaders—preparing them for success both in the air and beyond.