The first day of school on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Kuumba Academy Charter School in Wilmington was met with applause as part of the annual 100 Men Clap-Up.

Fathers, grandfathers, uncles, mentors, fraternity brothers, and city and community leaders including Mayor John Carney and City Council President 'Trippi' Congo lined the sidewalk at 12th and French streets, clapping and exchanging high fives with incoming students.

"We want our scholars to walk into the building on the first day feeling deeply affirmed and surrounded by a village that believes in them," said Dr. Natakie Chestnut-Lee, CEO of Kuumba Academy. "This is more than a welcome—it’s a declaration of purpose, power, and possibility."

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