The first pep rally of the school year at YES Prep Hobby Elementary was filled with cheers, chants, and school spirit—it was the launch of a powerful new partnership with the Houston Graduate Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., Gamma Phi Sigma Chapter.
A Mission to Serve Communities
Founded on the belief that education is the cornerstone of opportunity, Sigma Gamma Rho works nationally and globally to enhance the quality of life for women and families through community service, civil and social action. The organization focuses on education, health awareness, and leadership development.
For the Houston-based Gamma Phi Sigma Chapter, adopting YES Prep Hobby Elementary felt like a natural fit. Chapter members connected with Hobby’s Assistant Principal, Latresha Olaosebikan, and quickly saw that the school’s mission and values aligned with their own. “Educators are the foundation of lifelong learning, and it’s imperative that educators and students have the resources to engage in learning,” said Donna Fortenberry, President of the Gamma Phi Sigma Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho.
Rallying Behind Students and Teachers
To kick off the school year, the sorority gifted Hobby families with 300 backpacks filled with school supplies and provided teachers with classroom essentials, including a poster maker and other instructional tools to use throughout the year.
The pep rally brought the entire school together in celebration, featuring a Book Bag Relay Competition, school song, and class spirit competition. Students left with backpacks on their shoulders and pride and excitement in their hearts.
“Backpacks filled with essential school supplies can significantly help prepare Hobby Elementary students for a successful year by ensuring every student is equipped with the tools they need to be ready to learn and participate,” chapter members explained. “When students have their own supplies, they feel more confident and prepared, which can lead to increased engagement every day.”
Standing with Hobby Families
For the organization, supporting Hobby is about solidarity. “For Sigma Gamma Rho, it is not just about giving away school supplies, it’s about showing families that their community stands with them,” Fortenberry said. “Every backpack is a step towards equity, empowerment, and opportunity. And with our support, Hobby Elementary can continue making moments like this possible—one student at a time.”
Located in the heart of Houston, Hobby Elementary serves students and families with significant need. By adopting the campus, Sigma Gamma Rho is ensuring that students start the school year on equal footing while sending a powerful message: Hobby families are not alone.
Donna Fortenberry, President of the Gamma Phi Sigma Chapter, shared, “Education is the foundation to a bright future. We are here in partnership to ensure that the future is as bright as it can be—that there are no limitations. Today, we hope your spark has been lit for GREATER!”
As students filled the gym with cheers and school spirit, the partnership between Hobby Elementary and Sigma Gamma Rho made it clear that when schools and communities come together, the impact is immeasurable.
For more information about how you can enroll your student at YES Prep Hobby Elementary, please visit https://hobbyes.yesprep.org/ .