March 29, 2022 (Houston, TX) — More than 400 supporters of Yellowstone Schools raised $853,523 for student scholarships at the 5th annual Party in the Park fundraising event on Thursday evening, March 24. Every dollar raised throughout the evening was matched through the generosity of Yellowstone’s board members and friends. Guests honored faithful supporters and champions of Yellowstone Schools, Leslie & Randy Newcomer, before dancing the night away on the beautiful grounds of the McGovern Centennial Gardens adjacent to Hermann Park.
“Party in the Park is an excellent time for everyone to come together to fellowship and support our outstanding students and school,” stated Ryan Dolibois, Executive Director and Superintendent for Yellowstone Schools. “We are so blessed to show our appreciation to the Newcomer family and their passion for education and Yellowstone’s mission of serving underserved students.”
Located in Houston’s historic Third Ward, Yellowstone Schools educates students from across Houston, where 99% of Yellowstone students are Black and 96% qualify for free or reduced lunch. Students receive individualized support to develop their intellect and spirit, empowering them to reach their highest potential.
The evening kicked off with Yellowstone PreK student Jordyn delivering the invocation accompanied by her teacher, Desirae Thomas. Co-chairs for the event, Mary Anne & Cedric Burgher and Linda & Phil Pace, expressed their gratitude to all the guests for coming out on a beautiful evening to support Yellowstone Schools. Fourth-grader Grace presented the Newcomers with a special gift and thanked them for their faithful commitment to serving kids like her and ensuring all Yellowstone students receive a high-quality education rooted in faith.
The program continued with Mr. Dolibois sharing a brief history of Yellowstone, giving an update on current achievements, announcing the exciting news of expanding classes through the twelfth grade by 2026, and introducing a new video with the plan to fill these empty desks. The program’s highlight was a performance of “Amazing Grace” by sixth-grader Evan, who aspires to be a professional gospel singer.
Party in the Park continued throughout the evening, with everyone having fun dancing to the Hybrid 7 band, catching up with old friends, and making new ones.
Link to video on YouTube.
Link to Photo Gallery.
###
Yellowstone Schools educate nearly 500 majority Black children. Located in Houston’s historic Third Ward, Yellowstone is committed to partnering with students and families, regardless of financial means, to provide an excellent education, to develop faith and character, and to prepare scholars for life beyond high school. At Yellowstone, we inspire, empower, and invest in students to achieve their highest potential and fulfill their intended purpose.
The schools are comprised of Yellowstone Academy and Yellowstone College Prep. The Academy is a private, Christian school serving students in Pre-K through 5th grade and providing significant financial assistance to families. Yellowstone College Prep is a tuition-free charter school growing to serve students from 6th through 12th grade.
