Celebrating a Decade of Joyful Learning at Pathways Academy

In the vibrant halls of Hartford Public Schools, a tradition of joy and encouragement has reached a celebratory milestone. Calling All Brothers, an inspiring initiative celebrated its 10th anniversary by greeting Hartford students with high-fives and smiles, marking the beginning of another exciting academic year.

The Beginning of a Beautiful Tradition

Rev. Ashley “AJ” Johnson, the visionary behind Calling All Brothers, launched this movement a decade ago with a simple yet powerful mission: to create an environment where students feel welcomed, valued, and supported. “Every year, we see the same spark when students walk into school with brothers cheering them on,” Johnson remarked, reflecting on how this initiative has become a staple of warmth and community within Hartford’s schools.

Embracing a New School Year

As the 2025-2026 academic year kicks off, the enthused cheers and high-fives were witnessed across several Hartford schools, including Dr. Martin Luther King Middle School / Breakthrough Magnet North, Annie Fisher Montessori & STEM, Thirman L. Milner Middle Schools, and SAND Elementary School. Johnson sees this anniversary not just as a look back, but a clarion call to continue expanding this legacy of support and belonging for every child in Hartford.

Going Beyond the Classroom

This year also marks the introduction of a new initiative—the polo drive. This effort aims to ensure every Hartford student starts the school year equipped and confident, providing school polos in every color and size. “We’re not just celebrating years; we’re expanding horizons,” said Johnson, committed to seeing every child dressed and ready to embrace learning with enthusiasm.

Inspiring the Community

“Calling All Brothers” has grown from a local initiative into a beacon of unity and encouragement for the broader community. Featured prominently in the news channels like CTMirror, WFSB, and Fox 61, the initiative continues to draw attention and admiration for its heartwarming approach to student engagement.

The Path Ahead

As Calling All Brothers celebrates this significant milestone, Hartford Public Schools are reminded of the importance of creating a nurturing and inclusive environment for young learners. According to www.hartfordschools.org, initiatives like these illustrate the power of community involvement in education, reinforcing the belief that every child deserves to be celebrated and supported.

With a decade behind and many more to come, Calling All Brothers stands as a testament to the enduring power of encouragement, community, and above all else—joyful learning.