Where It Started
Where It Started
Where It Started
Scholar Smarts was founded in Kansas City, Missouri as a result of a grassroots initiative featuring Saturday College Prep workshops for youth at church-based events. It has now grown into an LLC and a non-profit with many success stories focusing on the areas of college, career readiness, and financial literacy. Shortly thereafter, Emplo
Scholar Smarts was founded in Kansas City, Missouri as a result of a grassroots initiative featuring Saturday College Prep workshops for youth at church-based events. It has now grown into an LLC and a non-profit with many success stories focusing on the areas of college, career readiness, and financial literacy. Shortly thereafter, Employment Smarts was launched focusing on youth and workplace readiness. Clients include T & L Welding Academy, G.E.A.R. UP of Kansas University, KC Neighborhood Associations, Talladega Trio Upward Bound, Kansas City Public Schools, Green Impact Zone, Church Organizations, Youth Organizations, Catholic Charities, PC’s for People and other non-profits. Scholar Smarts has been featured on local TV channels and other media highlights.
Recently Scholar Smarts has been successful in facilitating professional development in the areas of workplace readiness for Federal Trio Programs, ACT Prep Workshops, Teen Summer Job prep sessions, Teen Cyber Safety and Digital Wellness, and Re-Entry into the Workplace Training for ex-felons. Technology development has been a focus for us and through generous sponsorships, a newly designed, user-friendly website has been created. Another major project was the sponsorship of The Infinite Scholar College and Scholarship Fair that was held in February 2023 at the Municipal Auditorium here in Missouri. The Scholar Smarts team and co-sponsors were successful in bringing over 32 colleges, trade schools, and HBCU schools. Over 10K in on-the-spot scholarships were presented to eligible high school seniors.
Our Mission
Where It Started
Where It Started
At Scholar Smarts, we are a unique organization that combines the best of both worlds: a nonprofit and for-profit entity working hand in hand to make a lasting impact on education. Our mission is to provide high-quality educational and employment services to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. We want to increase postsecondary educat
At Scholar Smarts, we are a unique organization that combines the best of both worlds: a nonprofit and for-profit entity working hand in hand to make a lasting impact on education. Our mission is to provide high-quality educational and employment services to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. We want to increase postsecondary education and credential attainment of low and modest-income teens and adults, and to significantly expand the number of adults who secure family-sustaining careers. We strive to increase access to higher education for underserved students by removing systemic barriers through academic and social support. By developing workshops that focus on college prep, digital wellness, financial literacy, and workforce development programs, our participants can thrive in their education and professional workforce.
Our Approach
Where It Started
Our Approach
Supported by our Executive Board and Advisory Board, a team of passionate educators and experts, we have developed an approach to learning that combines personalized instruction, innovative technology, a curriculum that includes State GLE, and a supportive environment. There is a great amount of outreach to support student programs design
Supported by our Executive Board and Advisory Board, a team of passionate educators and experts, we have developed an approach to learning that combines personalized instruction, innovative technology, a curriculum that includes State GLE, and a supportive environment. There is a great amount of outreach to support student programs designed to identify and provide services for individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. This includes programming and workshops targeted to serve and assist low-income individuals, first-generation college students, and individuals with disabilities to advance through the academic pipeline.
Our commitment to excellence is reflected as we strive to ensure that all students receive the attention they deserve. They are the focus of Scholar Smarts!
Pauline Eatmon-Johnson | CEO, Founder & Consultant
Pauline is a dedicated educator and compassionate advocate who believes in the power of networking and embraces the proverbial phrase "It takes a village to raise a child." Her unwavering focus is on supporting families in the Kansas City Metro area, particularly those facing challenges such as low to moderate income, being first-generation college students, and lacking access to reliable internet connectivity and proper technology for academic pursuits.
With over 23 years of experience in Human Resources and 16 years as a Bank Officer in Corporate Banking, Pauline has developed a deep understanding of the professional world and the skills necessary for success. Drawing on her extensive corporate background, she transitioned into education over a decade ago, driven by her passion for empowering individuals and helping them achieve their personal goals.
She has received certificates and training in Learning and Development and holds a BA from Washburn University, a MS in Career and Technical Education from CMSU, and State Certification as Career Coordinator. She has worked in several local school districts.
In her role as the founder of Scholar Smarts and Employment Smarts, Pauline has created a platform that addresses challenges head-on. By leveraging the power of networking and partnerships within the community, she strives to create a support system reminiscent of the village concept, ensuring that no student or family is left behind.
Pauline's expertise in educational leadership, career development, and her passion for assisting individuals in achieving their personal and professional aspirations make her an invaluable asset. Her compassionate approach and commitment to educational equity drive Scholar Smarts Education to provide vital resources and support to students and families in need, helping them overcome barriers and reach their full potential.
Executive Board Members
Danielle Johnson |
Scholar Smarts Marketing Manager & International Advertising Executive
Annette Le’Pique |
Realtor Sales Executive at Realty One Group
Christian Herring |
Scholar Smarts Instructor & Charter School Teacher
Advisory Board Members
Rick Usher |
Founder of Usher Garage LLC
Patricia Hutton |
State Certified Math Instructor at Raytown School District
Marlon Caw |
Regional Manager at Liberty Bank and Trust Company
LaShaunda Jackson |
Director of T & L Welding Academy
Amanda Johnson |
IT Medical Consultant at Cerner/Orcale
Gerald McClemore | Toyota Project Manager
Jana Trew |
SR Program Officer Behavior Health
Mari Foster |
Scholar Smarts Instructor & Student Services Security Officer at Kansas City MO Public Schools District
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