Dyer-Kelly Elementary School welcomes NFL’s Arik Armstead for the launch of Thrive Schools Program

Dyer-Kelly Elementary School welcomed NFL standout Arik Armstead and his wife, Dr. Melinda Armstead, for a day centered on literacy, inspiration and community on March 23.

Armstead, a Jacksonville Jaguars defensive lineman, National Football League (NFL) Walter Payton Man of the Year and co-founder of the Armstead Academic Project (AAP), joined students, staff and district leaders to officially launch AAP’s Thrive Schools Program at Dyer-Kelly, marking the beginning of a five-year commitment to supporting the school community.

Through the Thrive Schools Program, AAP will invest up to $20,000 annually at each partner school, working closely with site leaders to expand access to literacy, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), and career exploration and development opportunities, ensuring students and educators have the support they need to thrive.

“We’re making a five-year commitment to ensure every resource and need is met,” said Armstead. “It’s all about what our young people need.”

At the launch event, more than 130 fifth-grade students enjoyed a special storytime with Armstead. He read The Magical Yet, a story about perseverance and growth, and led an engaging Q&A in which students asked about his journey to the NFL, his childhood, and how he overcomes challenges. Armstead encouraged students to stay focused on their goals and believe in themselves.

District and school leaders emphasized the importance of the partnership and its long-term impact. 

“We are especially honored to work alongside Arik Armstead. It reflects a deep belief in our students, in our schools and in the future of this community,” said Natalia Aguirre-Mazzi, San Juan Unified School District’s community partnerships, volunteers and field trips coordinator.

Principal Jamal Hicks noted that the collaboration reflects a shared vision to ensure students have opportunities to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

“This partnership shows that the dreams of our students matter, their goals matter and our community matters,” said Hicks.

Students also felt that impact firsthand.

“I’m having a good morning right now, and I’m feeling really good because I got to be here and enjoy this day,” said student Zayln.

San Juan Unified values meaningful partnerships that strengthen our schools, uplift our students and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive. Through partnerships like this, students are equipped to thrive, inspired to dream big and reminded that their goals truly matter.