This year, YES Prep Public Schools reached an incredible milestone—welcoming our 20,000th student. That student is Jonathan “JJ” Zelaya, a founding pre-K student at YES Prep White Oak Elementary. For JJ and his parents, Jazzy and Jonathan, joining the YES Prep family means more than just starting school. It represents opportunity, hope, and the beginning of a partnership that will guide JJ from his first day of pre-K through graduation and beyond. 

A Family Rooted in Houston 

Both Jazzy and Jonathan were born and raised in Houston. With roots in Mexico and El Salvador, they share a deep pride in their community and culture. When their neighbor first told them about YES Prep White Oak Elementary, they immediately knew it was the right choice for JJ. 

“As soon as I heard about YES Prep, that was the only option for us,” Jazzy explained. “We knew right away that this was where JJ needed to be. It’s a safe, welcoming environment where his individual needs will be supported.” 

For the Zelayas, the promise of one-on-one attention and a focus on personalized learning set YES Prep apart. Jonathan added, “I feel like YES Prep really pushes kids to reach their goals and go to college. It’s not just about letting kids say what they want to do—it’s about helping them achieve it.” 

Founding Families, New Beginnings 

JJ is part of White Oak Elementary’s very first class, making his first day of school even more special. “I’m excited to learn and make some friends,” JJ shared with a big smile. 

His parents feel the same excitement. “It’s not only JJ’s first day of school,” Jazzy reflected, “it’s White Oak’s first day of school. We’re so proud to be part of the founding families building this community together.” 

That sense of pride and excitement is shared by White Oak’s founding principal, Matt McMahan, who welcomed JJ and the Zelaya family with these words, “Welcoming JJ and his family as YES Prep’s 20,000th student and as a White Oak Elementary founding SPARK is truly exciting. Fulfilling our promise of a college ready culture from pre-K to senior signing day means that JJ will receive that opportunity like so many other SPARKS and YES Prep students and we can’t wait to see our founding students make those announcements one day.” 

The Power of YES 

When asked what “the Power of YES” means to them, the Zelaya family’s answer was simple: possibility. 

“YES is the power to open doors,” Jazzy said. “It’s about learning opportunities, mentorships, and preparing JJ for the future.” 

Jonathan agreed, noting how the milestone feels bigger than just their family: “It’s inviting to know that so many families have trusted YES Prep with their children and that it continues to grow. Being the 20,000th student—it feels like such a great opportunity for JJ.” 

Looking Ahead 

JJ already has big dreams for his future. When asked what he wants to be when he grows up, he proudly shared: “A police officer.” With his curiosity, excitement for learning, and the strong support of his family and teachers, his parents know he’ll have every opportunity to pursue his passions. 

As founding members of the White Oak Elementary community, the Zelaya family is eager to stay engaged. Jazzy plans to volunteer at the school and partner closely with JJ’s teachers. “Learning never stops,” she said. “We want to work hand-in-hand with the school to support JJ every step of the way.” 

A Milestone for Our Community 

Welcoming our 20,000th student is a reflection of the trust families place in YES Prep. It represents our growth, our mission, and our unwavering belief that every child in Houston deserves access to an excellent education. 

This milestone reflects our growth as a network and also the deep trust families place in YES Prep. CEO Mark DiBella shared his perspective on what this moment means for our community, “Reaching 20,000 students is an incredible milestone for YES Prep. It’s 20,000 individual stories—like JJ’s—that reflect the hopes, dreams, and potential of Houston families. We’re honored that the Zelaya family entrusted us with JJ’s education, and we’re committed to walking alongside them from pre-K all the way to graduation.”  

The Zelaya family embodies that mission. Their journey with YES Prep is just beginning, but their story captures what makes our community so powerful: parents, students, and educators working together to unlock opportunity. 

Welcome, JJ. Welcome, Zelayas. Welcome to the Power of YES.