Y2K Academy Hosts 3rd Annual Fathers As 1st Teachers Gospel Family Fest

Aug. 2, 2012 - PRLog -- In celebration of its 3rd annual region-wide back-to-school gathering, Suffolk-based Y2K Academy, asks Hampton Roads Dads to take their children to school on the first day of school, as a means to increase graduation rates and improve student performance in local schools. The “Fathers As First Teachers on the First Day of School” event kicks off on Saturday, August 18th at 10am-4pm with a family picnic and Gospel festival at Epps Farm Supply/3 Sisters Berry Farm  located at 2170 Joshua Lane, Suffolk, VA 23434.

Dads who will be taking their children to school can sign up by texting the keyword “DadB2S” to 59769.  Dads desiring to organize a group for their city, should text “DadzCapt” to 59769.

The drop-out prevention initiative is a component of its Y2K Dadz Responsible Fatherhood Initiative organized by The Master’s House Church. “We developed this initiative out of our growing concern over the region’s AYP failures and increasing school drop-out rates,” stated Dr. Princella Johnson, Y2K Academy Founder. “Students who drop out of the school system are at-risk for drug use, teen pregnancy and criminal activity,” states Y2K Dadz Director Maurice Johnson.

“This initiative is designed to decrease “idle minds and hands” from gang involvement and any type of negative behavior. We believe our efforts will eventually lead to increased public safety, poverty reduction and create more tax-paying, productive citizens,” she said.

Fathers, mothers, children are all invited to participate in the event. The event is free, but registration is required for families wishing to receive school supplies at   http://Y2KAcademy.Webs.Com/EventRegistrationForm.htm.

The event features a Gang Awareness/Prevention Seminar for parents by the Virginia Office of the Attorney General. Speakers include: Dr. Johnson, Y2K Academy founder; Elder Maurice Johnson, Y2K Dadz Director; Mr. Edward Hipes, General Manager, Fire Mountain Restaurant & Grill (event corporate sponsor); and youth speaker Evangelist Kendra Jackson, Tabernacle Christian Church. This year youth will enjoy free horse rides compliments of 7 Cities Saddle Club, Inc. Short, yet captivating puppet shows by Southside Baptist’s Roman Road Puppet Ministry will keep children entertained. Pop-up tents, blankets, strollers and lawn chairs recommended. Restaurant coupons and free parenting resources will be available. Stringent safety measures will be in place to prevent children from being separated from their parents.  

The event also features sermonettes by Hampton Roads pastors, Gospel music choirs, liturgical dancers, games, and entertainment from local Gospel music artists. Gospel music performances by Delores “DeeDee” Gee, The Chosen Few, Victory Temple COGIC, New Mount Joy Food for Living Ministries choir and nurses ministry plus many more!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWSCe8mjr4c



Y2K Academy is a Christ-centered, award-winning, youth and family, evidence-based mentoring agency which specializes in character education, academic support, workforce development, parenting and co-parenting education, operated by The Master’s House Church. Y2K holds the distinction of developing Virginia’s first-ever online mentoring program. Mentors are needed for youth and Dads. To volunteer, sponsor this event or donate backpacks or school supplies, or for more information or interviews, please contact, Dr. Princella Johnson, (757) 925-4545.