We Lit Academy: Where Bright Minds Shine!
We Lit Reads: Where Bright Minds Shine!
MEET THE WE LIT ACADEMY TEAM!
At We Lit Academy, our shared commitment is simple yet profound – we all put children first and their well-being and development are at the forefront of everything we do.
Allow us to introduce you to the remarkable individuals who are responsible for creating a prestigious and motivating learning environment. Our team plays a vital role in inspiring our students to strive for excellence and pursue academic greatness.
MEET DR. LADONNA N. SMITH
Founder/Lead Educator/Curriculum Specialist
LaDonna, the founder of We Lit Academy, has a remarkable story that has shaped her mission and dedication to transforming education for Black diaspora youths. Growing up in Brownsville, Brooklyn, she witnessed the challenges faced by her community, including violence, stigmas, stereotypes, and low educational expectations. Determined to make a difference, LaDonna has devoted her time, effort, and energy to creating a learning environment that addresses the educational disparities these youths face.
LaDonna's extensive educational background demonstrates her commitment to empowering young minds. She earned her Literacy Instruction Certification from Harvard Graduate School of Education, a B.S in Community & Human Service with a focus on early childhood management from SUNY Empire State University, her Master's in curriculum design and instruction from SUNY Empire State University, and her PhD in Holistic Psychology from UMS.
Driven by her desire to become a voice and change agent for Black diaspora youths, LaDonna's creative journey encompasses speaking engagements, writing books, creating board games, and designing impactful educational programs. Her passion for inspiring and equipping children with valuable educational resources led her to establish We Lit Academy.
As an award-winning author, holistic counselor, small press publisher, and journalist, LaDonna has connected with exceptional educators, authors, and entrepreneurs worldwide. These educational partners have enthusiastically joined We Lit Academy, bringing their knowledge and expertise to benefit the students. Collaborating closely with her partners, LaDonna meticulously designed the curricula to create learning experiences that support students' healing and growth.
Through We Lit Academy, LaDonna aims to ignite generational change by offering educational, mental, and spiritual healing. Her goal is to equip children with the tools they need to become independent, self-aware, self-sufficient, and confident individuals. With her unwavering commitment, LaDonna strives to empower each child to embrace their true potential and become the remarkable souls they were born to be.
MEET ELIJAH
Activity Facilitator
Elijah, a published children's book author and dedicated youth basketball trainer, brings his passion for education and finance to We Lit Academy. Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in
Psychology, with a minor in finance at SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Elijah has collaborated with his mother, LaDonna, to develop a hands-on economics system and school store that imparts early financial skills to students. Through his engaging author visits and workshops, Elijah's book emphasizes the importance of bullying prevention. With his diverse skill set and commitment to empowering young minds, Elijah is ready to ignite a love for learning and financial literacy at We Lit Academy.
MEET ISAIAH
Activity Facilitator
Isaiah, a published children's book author and enthusiastic youth basketball trainer, is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Child
Psychology with a minor in Physical Education from Utica University. Together with his mother, LaDonna, Isaiah has played a pivotal role in establishing a comprehensive physical education program at We Lit Academy, focusing on nurturing the mind, body, and soul of each child. This innovative program introduces concepts like yoga, meditation, and healthy eating, fostering holistic well-being. With his dedication to promoting physical and mental wellness, Isaiah is poised to inspire a generation of confident and healthy individuals at We Lit Academy.
MEET AZARIAH
Youth Leader
Azariah, a published children's book author and talented high school student, has already earned her Advanced Child Care Training certification from the American Red Cross Training Institute. Alongside her mother, LaDonna, Azariah brings her passion for music and movement to We Lit Academy. Having taught herself the piano and guitar, she aims to use her God-given talents to create an exciting music and movement experience for young children. Azariah's drive for musical education, coupled with her nurturing nature, will ensure that the children of We Lit Academy embark on a creative and joyful journey of self-expression and exploration. With her vibrant energy and dedication, Azariah is ready to make every music and movement class with We Lit Academy a harmonious and enriching experience.
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Stay tuned for Azariah's sing-a-long video on our channel!
MEET Uriah
Book Club Captain
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Uriah is a 10-year-old author and co-creator of the Cool Kids Reading and Hungry Minds Book Club. Inspired by his own journey to rediscover a love for reading, Uriah teamed up with his mother, award-winning author LaDonna N. Smith, to write captivating children’s books that spark imagination and encourage a passion for storytelling. Through his book club, Uriah has created a welcoming space for young readers to explore exciting stories, share their favorite books, and build a lifelong connection to the joy of reading. With a deep love for storytelling and a mission to inspire his peers, Uriah is paving the way for a new generation of avid readers.
