Photo Gallery (images by Meghan Bushnell)

Oakland, CA -- Committed to making a difference in the lives of youth, the Academy of Art University Track & Field team visited Emma Spiro's 5th grade class at Futures Elementary School this past Thursday afternoon. On this fun day filled with learning both inside the classroom and outside on the playground, the Urban Knights' special appearance helped reinforce the message that dreams can be achieved.
“The experience was great,” freshman sprinter and Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) member Shaquille Howard said. “The kids made my day because I was studying all day and they really boosted my energy up. They really look up to us both as student-athletes and as regular students and one of the kids, in fact, would like to come to Academy of Art University in the future.”

Beginning off the afternoon, each member of the ART U Track & Field introduced him or herself to the youngsters and described their own plans for after college. The class became empowered as they heard each artist-athletes' unique path from elementary to high school and to now Academy of Art University.

Following the introductions, the Urban Knights broke off into smaller “buddy” groups where they paired with individual students and had time to conduct an interview survey of one another. Many stronger connections were simultaneously made around the room during this opportunity for one-to-one interaction. Then, during the final classroom segment, athletes and their younger counterparts read books with one another.

“It was great to get a chance to work with the future,” freshman sprinter and SAAC member Jaylon Hicks said. “It went really well, the kids seemed really happy, and I learned that children pay attention to more than we think.”

After the time indoors, recess was next. ART U athlete and 5th grader alike excitedly headed to the playground where a host of fun activities were in store. The group started off with some warm-ups before exchanging dance moves, playing basketball, kicking around a soccer ball, and even getting into some good old fashioned double dutch with jump ropes.

“It was refreshing to spend time with kids and see how us being there made them so happy,” senior sprinter Jazmin White said. “When we were at recess one of the little girls asked, 'Are you guys gonna be here tomorrow?' and I'm pretty sure we all wanted to say yes.”

The Urban Knights shared in the youthful spirit of the class from Futures Elementary and closed out the day with a collective “Go Urban Knights!” cheer.

“It was truly amazing,” junior hurdler/jumper Vashti Thomas said. “Those children made my year. The girl who came up to me and asked if we were coming back the next day really touched my heart.”

It what was no doubt a successful trip to the East Bay, Academy of Art University Track & Field continued the Urban Knights' campaign to give back to the surrounding communities.

“I just hope that they enjoy their life in the future as a college student,” Howard added. “As long as they reach their goals, they'll be happy.”