Over the past year, Mr. Kirkley has worked diligently on a community service project that will empower students to create change, be a part of something beyond our community, and support Jaguars in need. It's time to let the "cat" out of the bag...let us introduce you to the Jaguar Warriors Project!
The Jaguar Warrior Project started as an idea after our annual Career Day last year when Dave Johnson from the Katie Adamson Conservation Fund (KACF) presented during the event. Over the summer, Mr. Johnson alerted us to a unique opportunity, and through the help of KACF, Mr. Kirkley, and our Boosters program, we were able to procure a dynamic painting created by an unusual pairing of human and animal.
Guapo is a rescued jaguar from Costa Rica who was orphaned as a cub. Due to this, he was unable to return to the wild and now serves as an ambassador and warrior for his species. YeYe, the artist behind the painting, was inspired by Guapo's story and started charting out how they could collaborate with the jaguar to create a one-of-a-kind piece of art. After the canvas was created, YeYe laid paint down on the canvas and Guapo's handlers brought the painting into his space where he "painted" with his paws and tail. The painting now hangs in our Fine Art Gallery and displays the power and need for human ambassadors for all species.
So, what does this all mean, and how does it connect with Jefferson Academy? The Jaguar Warriors Project will work directly with KACF through donations (link in our bio) to rehabilitate land and train native populations to provide veterinary care and protection to all animals, including Guapo. Each year, there will be opportunities to donate and at the end of the year, all donations will be given to KACF to solidify the prolonged protection of these amazing creatures...the heart of Jefferson Academy.
Throughout the rest of the year, you'll see more details on how you, your club, your team, and your class can be Jaguar Warriors and make a difference worldwide!