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There is no denying that April Balenger, Arts & Innovation Magnet Program's (AIM) Jr. Beta Club Sponsor has a passion for her students and their personal growth. Balenger was previously the Jr. Beta Club Sponsor for Barrow Arts & Sciences Academy (BASA) before she came into AIM blazing.
"This has been my passion for well over two decades. I see tremendous empathy come from the students in terms of understanding the principles and what we do and what we're about," said Balenger.
The club had thirty participating students when Balenger first arrived at AIM. There are now seventy-three active members of the chapter. The chapter has accumulated over 5,000 community service hours this year.
National Beta Week occurs in the second week of March. It is a week dedicated to showcasing the many ways National Beta enriches the lives of members across the country. Members spend the week celebrating the accomplishments and the Four Pillars of the organization: Character, Leadership, Service, and Achievement.
AIM's Jr. Beta Club Achievements
In November of 2023, the chapter attended the 33rd Annual Junior Beta Club Convention in Savannah, Georgia. The team competed in different categories; Academics, Arts, Visuals, Performing Arts, and more. This was the first year the club participated in the convention.
The club brought home several awards from the state convention. They placed fourth in Digital Portfolio, Fourth in Performing Arts Solo, and Second Place in Poetry.
Eleven members will be heading to Gatlinburg from March 6 to Friday, March 8 for leadership training. They will have the opportunity to grow their leadership skills and learn how to problem solve, develop their public speaking skills, learn collaboration, and more.
"I've got a student who running for leadership representative. If she wins, she will go to Nationals which is in June," said Balenger. "I am proud of our students. I can see their passion for giving back to the community."
Community Service Projects
Jr. Beta Club members will be participating in the annual 5k at BASA on May 11. The proceeds will benefit the Rainbow House in Winder. The run is open for sponsors and runners if you are looking for a way to get involved with the community.
The chapter has participated in helping pack bags with Adventure Bags and they've volunteered with the Spooktacular for Winder, Relay for Life, Wreaths Across America, and the Ronald McDonald House Drive.
"This goes beyond school. That is the goal, that it's not just something we're doing right now. These are lifelong character traits that will stick with them, and mold and shape the students as they become functioning adults in society."