MORNING ANNOUNCEMENTS

The official newsletter of the Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc.

Vol. 5

August 2025

BACK TO SCHOOL EDITION

President's Corner

Good morning, Seven Pearls Family!

As we prepare to get the kiddos ready for the new school year and welcome back our scholars, it can be both an anxious and exciting time. Getting school supplies so our youngsters are successful in class and getting classrooms ready for a year of learning is exciting and the overall effort is worth it. It truly takes a village to groom and grow the young minds of tomorrow. Together we must cultivate them and watch them grow.

I encourage families to take an active stance in their children's education. Meet the teachers, visit classrooms, communicate frequently and check grades so you are aware of what is going on. Most of all LISTEN to both your child and the school staff. Educators share the sentiment of wanting what is best for your child and it is imperative everyone is working together for their benefit. Enroll them in tutoring, have your child join a sport or club. Volunteer to be a mentor. This promotes a well-rounded individual.

Take advantage of school supply drives in your community. No donation is too small. Contact local organizations and government officials in your area to see who is sponsoring drives this year.

The Seven of '1922' understood the role they played in society thus their commitment to inculcating principals of high ideas and proficiency among teachers and uplifting young people in the community.

We all play a role in a child's life whether we are a parent, family member, teacher, mentor, neighbor, or coach. When we contribute and demonstrate positive attributes and make lessons relative to them, children will emulate what they see. Continue to inspire and educate. Lets continue to empower and transform the leaders of tomorrow.

Always for the Seven,

Linette Y. Caroselli

President/CEO of Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc.

Happy 7th!

On the seventh of each month, the Seven Pearls Foundation will spotlight and award an individual, group or chapter that embodies the grand legacy of our seven illustrious Founders.

Do you know a group or individual deserving of this honor? Feel free to send their name, photo, brief bio and email address to: create@sevenpearls.org.

Criteria for the "Crowning Efforts with Success" Award:

• Open to all professions
• Does not have to be a Soror
• Brief explanation on how the candidate embodies the legacy and vision of the Founders
• Their philosophy on education or sisterhood
• Examples of community service or programs implemented

Crowning Efforts with Success Award

Soror Mallory Boykin is the Foundation's Crowning Efforts with Success Award recipient for August!

Soror Boykin’s journey to sisterhood, scholarship, and service is a beautiful testament to the values that the Seven of '1922' held dear. From her very first interactions with the remarkable women of Sigma, she felt an undeniable sense of belonging; each sister she encountered embodied the principles of looking out for one another, pursuing education, and making a tangible impact in their communities. This welcoming embrace not only captivated her heart but also reinforced her decision to join, even as she navigated the challenges of her undergraduate years. It was through the grace and understanding of those incredible women that Soror Boykin found her path, reflecting the organization's commitment to uplift women and girls through education. Her belief that "children don’t care about what you know until they know you care" underscores the importance of nurturing relationships in fostering effective learning environments. As we reflect on our own journeys, let us be inspired to make meaningful connections and drive social progress within our communities. Join us in this legacy of empowerment and support, as we strive to create a brighter future for generations to come!

It is our esteemed honor to present Soror Mallory Boykin as this month's recipient of the Crowning Efforts with Success Award.

Join us in giving Soror Boykin her flowers!

The Possible Elimination of the Department of Education- How Does This Affect Us?

The Department of Education has garnered significant attention in recent months, and it is essential for us to engage in meaningful discussions about its role and impact on our nation. Established in 1979 under President Jimmy Carter, the Department's primary mission is to ensure equitable access to education and to support the development of educational opportunities for all students, particularly those from underserved communities. The Department disburses Title I funds to schools with high populations of low-income students, collects vital data on educational institutions, oversees the accreditation of higher education programs, safeguards students against discrimination based on race and sex, and manages crucial financial aid programs, including loans and grants. However, it is important to note that the Department does not dictate curriculum, enforce state academic standards, or establish educational institutions; these responsibilities lie with state and local authorities. Understanding the Department of Education's functions is vital, as it plays a crucial role in empowering women and girls of color, among other marginalized groups, by promoting educational resources and opportunities that can transform lives. By reflecting on the implications of these functions, we can better appreciate the importance of advocacy in fostering equitable education. We invite our community to join us in discussions and initiatives that focus on education, as together we can uplift and empower every individual, fostering a culture of collaboration and sisterhood.

The new administration under President Trump plans to dismantle the federal agency and these plans are currently underway. Massive amounts of employees have already been laid off.

This action is controversial and contractionary to what the DOE does. The DOE simply enforces the laws ensuring states are following it and ensures federal services protect students.

The recent legal developments surrounding the U.S. Department of Education, particularly the decision by a U.S. District Judge in Massachusetts to block layoffs, highlight a critical moment for educational equity. However, the Supreme Court's subsequent pause on this injunction, alongside the dissenting opinions which emphasize the judiciary's role in maintaining lawful governance, raises significant concerns about the implications for underserved communities, particularly women and girls of color. The drastic staffing reductions have severely hindered the Department’s ability to fulfill its essential duties, as underscored by a survey from the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators revealing that 59% of respondents have noted substantial declines in responsiveness and efficiency from the Office of Federal Student Aid. This situation is urgent, as it directly impacts the foundation's mission to empower future leaders among women and girls by limiting their access to quality education and resources. The Seven Pearls Foundation remains committed to advocating for these vital changes and urges all stakeholders to join in collective efforts to ensure that every student, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, can access the support they need to succeed.

It is important to recognize that the proposal to eliminate the Education Department is not a new concept and would require congressional approval to move forward. The Republican party has long campaigned for the dissolution of this department since its inception, reflecting a deeply divided opinion among Americans on the potential closure of such an agency. The critical issue at hand is whether the elimination of the Education Department would result in chaos and complications, potentially jeopardizing vital programs that serve K-12 students and those enrolled in higher education institutions. Simply transferring staff and initiatives to other departments may not effectively address the needs of these educational programs, as it is the substantive changes to federal policy that could have the most significant impact on the educational landscape.

While the dissolution of the department may raise concerns, it is crucial to understand that federal education laws, particularly those ensuring equitable access to education, remain in effect. As long as Congress continues to allocate funds through vital programs such as the Elementary and Secondary Education Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), our commitment to providing a free and appropriate education for all students, especially those with disabilities, will endure. These laws are designed to empower local educational agencies by providing essential funding, calculated based on the number of students with disabilities, to ensure that special education services are adequately delivered. However, the integrity of this system hinges on federal accountability and oversight, which are paramount to ensuring that states not only utilize these funds effectively but also contribute their share to meet the comprehensive needs of these students. It is imperative that we advocate for sustained federal support and collaboration to foster an educational environment where every child, regardless of their abilities, can thrive and succeed.

Title I funds play a crucial role in providing essential support to low-income families by funding educational technology, remedial instruction materials, internet access, mental health services, and a variety of other vital services. The potential dismantling of DOE poses significant risks, including delays or possible failures in the distribution of these critical funds, which could lead to detrimental effects on student outcomes such as test scores, attendance, graduation rates, behavior, and overall engagement in learning. Furthermore, the implications for students' civil rights must not be overlooked; the Office of Civil Rights is tasked with enforcing federal laws against discrimination based on race, color, sex, disability, or national origin within educational institutions. This enforcement often necessitates that parents have the resources to pursue legal action to address grievances, a challenge that can be insurmountable for those lacking financial means. It is imperative for parents and community members to advocate for equitable access to educational resources, ensuring that all students receive the support they deserve, and to actively participate in initiatives that protect and uphold educational access for all.

The potential transition of Federal Loan Programs to another federal agency or to state control carries significant implications for women and girls of color, particularly in terms of access to education and financial resources. Should federal student loans be reassigned to the U.S. Department of the Treasury or private, for-profit organizations, the ramifications could be profound, including potential delays in the processing of FAFSA applications and the distribution of vital aid due to a reduction in staff at the Department of Education. To mitigate these challenges, we encourage parents and students to take proactive steps by applying early for financial aid and other Department of Education-administered programs. It is also crucial to stay vigilant by monitoring communications regarding FAFSA and aid deadlines, and reaching out to individual colleges to discuss contingency plans for any potential delays. As information surrounding these changes is constantly evolving, it is essential for us to remain informed and educated about policy shifts, understanding how they may impact our communities. We urge you to engage with your local representatives—do not hesitate to ask questions and voice your concerns. Together, we can navigate these changes and continue to advocate for the educational opportunities that empower women and girls in underserved communities.

It is crucial to recognize that the elimination of the Department of Education can only be achieved through an act of Congress, highlighting the importance of legislative action in safeguarding our educational institutions. This underscores the need for community engagement and collective advocacy to ensure that the educational opportunities provided to underserved populations, particularly women and girls, are not jeopardized. The foundation remains steadfast in its mission to empower these demographics through educational initiatives, and any systemic changes that threaten the Department of Education could disproportionately impact those we serve. Therefore, it is imperative for everyone to stay informed and proactive in advocating for educational resources, reinforcing our commitment to sisterhood and empowerment in the face of potential legislative challenges.

Claybourn, Cole and Wood, Sarah, "The Dismantling of the Education Department". U. S. and World Report News.com, U.S. News & World Report L.P. 16 July 2025, www.usnews.com/education/best-colleges/articles/what-happens-if-the-education-department-is-dissolved

Introducing a New Founder-Inspired Initiative

Hold onto your pearls, because the Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc. is diving into exciting new waters with the launch of the Pearls of Wisdom Empowerment Institute! This isn't just any program; it's a golden opportunity for young ladies in high school to shine brighter than ever! We're on a mission to sprinkle some leadership gold dust and equip these future trailblazers with the tools and resources they need to blossom into productive citizens. Picture this: a transformative journey where students evolve into remarkable women, embodying our Founders' vision of empowerment and community upliftment. With a focus on etiquette, social-emotional learning, and the priceless gems of connection and empathy, we’re ready to help our young ladies not just navigate, but dance through life’s challenges! So, let’s come together and make waves of change—join us in supporting this initiative, because when one pearl shines, we all shine!

Volunteers in the Fayetteville, North Carolina area are needed. Know of a program or speaker that will benefit our targeted audience? If interested, click the Volunteer Here button for our volunteer form below.

Interested in partnering with us? Contact Us: admin@sevenpearls.org

Help us Crown the Moments!

*Program conceived & in development by members of the Seven Pearls Foundation, Inc. BOD.

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Contact: admin@sevenpearls.org