STEP:
Stepping Toward Educational Progress
Why STEP?
We understand that time outside of school hours is crucial for a child's development. That's why we have designed our after-school program to go beyond academics and focus on the holistic growth of each student. STEP isn't simply about imparting knowledge. It equips students with life skills, nurtures their individuality, and cultivates a sense of responsibility towards themselves and the world around them. It's a transformative experience that lays the foundation for a fulfilling and successful life.
Academic Support
We provide homework assistance, tutoring, and project-based learning tailored to each student's needs. We align our curriculum with the school's educational goals while creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for each child.
Restorative Practices
We integrate social and emotional learning to support students' overall well-being and personal growth. To accomplish this, we incorporate activities that promote self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, and relationship-building.
Artistic Learning
We believe creativity and self-expression are integral components of students' development. We provide opportunities for students to engage in artistic activities that promote imagination, self-confidence, and self-expression.
Our Team
Dr. Brandon Lewis
STEP Consulting Services, LLC Founder and Director
As the visionary leader and Director of STEP (Stepping Toward Educational Progress), Dr. Brandon Lewis brings a wealth of passion, expertise, and commitment to transforming education and fostering holistic student development. With a profound belief in the power of education beyond textbooks, Dr. Lewis has dedicated his career to creating innovative learning experiences that empower young minds.
In 1998, Dr. Lewis began his stepping career as a shy, insecure performer. By 2003, Dr. Lewis participated in national step shows, won countless trophies, and began his pursuit to teach others the benefits of stepping. Dr. Lewis created the STEP After-school Program in 2003 because he recognized the need for comprehensive approaches that encompass academic excellence, creativity, cultural responsiveness, and emotional growth. STEP has served as a beacon of educational innovation in several elementary, middle, and, high schools. Ultimately, STEP offers a nurturing space where students thrive, learn, and transform into well-rounded individuals.
Jessie McGinty
STEP Consulting Services Program Manager
Jessie has been in Human Resources for 18 years, serving in various roles such as director of Learning and Development, program manager, instructional designer, corporate trainer, and career consultant. Over the last 2 decades, she has worked in several industries including Retail, Food Service, Technology, and Higher Education. Jessie is a certified mediator for Georgia's Court System and provides mediation services for business organizations in need of conflict resolution for their employees. Jessie also has a passion for creating experiences and opportunities that brighten children’s lives and futures. She enjoys teaching K-12 children to dance, express themselves through art, and develop a love of the outdoors through camping and hiking.
Erin Morrison
STEP Consulting Services Program Development Consultant
Erin is a seasoned project management professional with over 25 years of experience in Healthcare IT. As a dedicated mother of three school-age kids, Erin wears many hats. She has generously volunteered her time by leading a Girl Scout Troop for four years and offering pro bono consulting support to local non-profits. Beyond her professional and volunteer work, Erin’s true passion lies in childhood enrichment beyond the confines of the classroom. She actively implements programs that cater to all aspects of a child’s needs - a testament to her commitment to fostering holistic growth. Erin and her family are avid outdoorspeople whose vacations include visiting National Parks, camping on Cumberland Island and hiking the North Georgia Mountains.
Brian King
STEP Consulting Services Program Analyst
Brian King is an accomplished administrator and practitioner with over 20 years in the education sector. King has held leadership positions in nonprofit and academic organizations, directing university-community education improvement initiatives in historically marginalized communities in the US and Canada. He has extensive experience in fostering community collaboration, program development, implementation and evaluation. Brian received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Rochester and completed coursework for his Master of Education at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Gustavious Maddox
STEP Consulting Services
Site Coordinator
Gus is a native of Atlanta and a recent graduate from Georgia Gwinnett College (GGC) with a Bachelor's degree in Business Management. He has dedicated over five years to various mentorship programs, such as the African American Male Initiative (AAMI), a program dedicated to the professional and personal growth of black male students at GGC. During his tenure as a peer mentor with AAMI, Gus guided mentees in establishing attainable objectives and devising practical strategies for both personal and professional advancement. From mentoring children to adults, Gus believes in the importance of giving back to his community and supporting our future generations through service, knowledge and fellowship.