2026-2027 OACDST DELTA ACADEMY APPLICATION

DELTA ACADEMY APPLICATION 2026-2027
“Catching the Dreams of Tomorrow”

“Preparing Young Women for the 21st Century”

Greetings Potential Delta Academy Participant,

This letter is to invite you to participate in an exciting mentoring program for the 2026-2027 school year. The women of the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., are opening our arms and hearts to welcome young ladies who are interested in joining the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy program.

The Delta Academy program is designed for females between the ages of 11-14 years old and in grades 6-8. The objective of the Delta Academy program is to provide young ladies with a firm structural program that will enhance their self-esteem, academic achievement, leadership skills, and cultural awareness. We are pleased that you are interested in the Delta Academy program and an exciting year has been planned for you!

Applications must be submitted no later than Friday, August 14, 2026. Please be sure to complete ALL components enclosed in this application. Failure to submit all parts of the application will exclude you from consideration.

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact:

Kimberly Hayes – Chair (321) 465-2258

OR

EMAIL: youthgroups@oacdst.org

Thank you in advance for your cooperation and assistance. We look forward to your participation in the program.

Sincerely,

Sherri King Tina Brown Watts

Chapter President Program Planning & Development Chair

Delta Academy Program Information
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is a non-profit nationwide organization, whose purpose is to provide service and programs to promote human welfare. The Delta Academy program was created out of an urgent need to save our young females ages 11-14 and/or grades 6-8 from the perils of academic failure, low self-esteem and crippled futures. The Delta Academy program provides an opportunity for the Orlando Alumnae Chapter to enrich and enhance the education that young teens receive in public schools throughout Orange County.

The goals for Delta Academy are:

•         To promote scholarship in math, science, and technology and/or careers where minority women are scarcely represented

•         To increase the opportunities to provide service in the form of leadership

•         To promote sisterhood defined as the cultivation of service learning

•         To promote sisterhood defined as the cultivation and maintenance of relationships

The Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy's aim is to shape well rounded young women by focusing on African American history, literacy, character development, healthy choices, and service learning. Many young ladies have tremendous potential, however they are not afforded the opportunity to broaden themselves, express their curiosity, and experience new and different things early on.

The Delta Academy program is designed for:

•         Young ladies, 11 to 14 years of age, who have potential for success, but limited opportunities;

•         Young ladies who are interested in developing themselves and sharpening various skills (i.e. literacy, math and science);

•         Young ladies interested in service, education, and technology;

•         Young ladies who enjoy learning new things;

•         Young ladies who express interest in math, science, technology, or other non- traditional careers;

•         Young ladies who are overlooked or left out of special programs at their schools because of perceptions that they may not be able to overcome financial, personal, or academic obstacles in their lives.

The mission of the Delta Academy Committee is to provide young ladies with a firm structural program that will enhance their self-esteem, academic achievement, leadership skills, and cultural awareness. This, in turn, will provide them with the opportunity to develop emotionally, socially, and intellectually and be prepared to take an active role in their success as they face the challenges of the world.

The symbol for Delta Academy is the dream catcher, which in Native American culture is believed to possess the power to capture bad dreams, entangling them in a web; thus allowing only the good dreams to pass through the center of the dream hoop into the person's being.

The primary goal of the program is to prepare young girls for full participation as leaders in the 21st Century!!!

Delta Academy Important Dates and Deadlines
“Catching the Dreams of Tomorrow”

“Preparing Young Women for the 21st Century”

Greetings Potential Delta Academy Participant,

This letter is to invite you to participate in an exciting mentoring program for the 2026-2027 school year. The women of the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., are opening our arms and hearts to welcome young ladies who are interested in joining the Dr. Betty Shabazz Delta Academy program.

The Delta Academy program is designed for females between the ages of 11-14 years old and in grades 6-8. The objective of the Delta Academy program is to provide young ladies with a firm structural program that will enhance their self-esteem, academic achievement, leadership skills, and cultural awareness. We are pleased that you are interested in the Delta Academy program and an exciting year has been planned for you!

Applications must be submitted no later than Friday, August 14, 2026. Please be sure to complete ALL components enclosed in this application. Failure to submit all parts of the application will exclude you from consideration.

If you have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact:

Kimberly Hayes – Chair, 2024 -2025 (321) 465-2258

OR

EMAIL: youthgroups@oacdst.org

Thank you in advance for your cooperation and assistance. We look forward to your participation in the program.

Sincerely,

Sherri King Tina Brown Watts

Chapter President Program Planning & Development Chair

Section 1: Applicant Information
Student Name

First NameMiddle Name or InitialLast Name
Student Age, as of 7/1/2026
Student Date of Birth

MonthDayYear
Date
Address (include apartment number, city, state and zip code)

Street Address

Street Address Line 2

CityState / Province

Postal / Zip Code
Student home phone
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Student cell phone
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Student Email
example@example.com
Student T-shirt Size (unisex)
Church Affiliation
Middle School Name
Grade for the 2026-2027 school year
GPA
Are you a participant in the free/reduced lunch program?
This will be my ____ year participating in the Orlando Alumnae Chapter Delta Academy program.
How did you hear about the program?
Parent/Guardian Information
Parent/ Guardian Name (First, Last)

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Home Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Parent/Guardian Work Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Parent/Guardian Cell Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Parent/Guardian Email
example@example.com

Personal Information
Is your mother a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority?
Have you participated in any other Delta Academy program?
Do you currently have a sibling participating in a Delta Academy, Delta G.E.M.S., or EMBODI program?
If yes, please give name:
Have you participated in any Delta Sigma Theta sponsored activities (i.e., Jabberwock, etc.)?

Section 2: Applicant Questions
What are your favorite and least favorite subjects? Explain why.
Describe your strengths and areas for development.
Tell us about your goals or aspirations.
List all extracurricular or after-school activities
Do you have any hobbies and/or interests? If so, describe.
Why do you want to be a participant in Delta Academy?
Signature of Applicant

Section 3: Transportation Information
How will your child travel to and from Delta Academy meetings and activities? (Please Note: The Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Orlando Alumnae Chapter does not provide transportation and is not responsible for your child’s travel to or from the Delta Academy program.)

Other
Do you have any additional persons (other than parent/guardians & emergency contacts listed on this form) who are approved to transport your child? If yes, please list (this may include a sibling, grandparent, family friend, etc.):
Name

First NameLast Name
Relationship
Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Name

First NameLast Name
Relationship
Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Name

First NameLast Name
Relationship
Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.

Section 4: Emergency Contact Information

TWO contacts MUST be provided
Name

First NameLast Name
Relationship
Home Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Cell Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Name

First NameLast Name
Relationship
Home Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Cell Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.

Section 6: Authorization for Medical Treatment
PARENT AUTHORIZATION FOR MEDICAL EMERGENCY TREATMENT

In case of medical emergency, I understand every effort will be made to contact parents or guardian of the child. In the event I cannot be reached, I hereby give permission to the physician selected by authorized representative(s) of the Orlando Alumnae Chapter to hospitalize, secure proper treatment for and to order injection, anesthesia or surgery for my child.
Student Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date

Section 7: Consent Forms
STUDENT/PARENT AGREEMENT TO PARTICIPATE

We have read and agree with all the information provided for the Delta Academy program sponsored by the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. If (our/my) child is selected for participation into the Delta Academy program, please accept (our/my) signature(s) as (our/my) consent to have her participate. You may count on (us/me) for support and assistance whenever appropriate.
Student Name

First NameLast Name
Student Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
Parent/Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
PARENT/GUARDIAN STATEMENT OF CONSENT

I voluntarily give my daughter (the student whose name is listed above) permission to participate in the Delta Academy program. I am authorized to give permission for the student to participate in the program. My child’s participation in the Delta Academy program is completely voluntary. Delta Academy is committed to providing the best possible climate for maximum development and achievement of goals for all student participants. The Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Orlando Alumnae Chapter and its related entities will make every effort to protect the welfare of the Delta Academy participants; however, the program committee members are not responsible for ensuring the physical, mental, social and medical health of program participants. As a parent/guardian, I am responsible for the welfare of my child. The Delta Academy committee may suspend a student’s participation if their behavior does not reflect the spirit of the program.
Parent/Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
CONSENT TO PHOTOGRAPH

I voluntarily give permission for my daughter (the student whose name is listed above), to be photographed and videotaped. My signature gives consent to the use of her likeness in any publication, educational material, advertising, news media, and World Wide Web materials that the Delta Academy/Orlando Alumnae Chapter may utilize and produce. I understand and agree that such materials, including all negatives, positives, digital images, and prints shall become and remain the sole property of the Delta Academy/Orlando Alumnae Chapter and I shall have no right or title to such items. I further understand and agree that these materials may be kept on file and used by the Delta Academy/Orlando Alumnae Chapter for potential future use. I agree to release the Delta Academy/Orlando Alumnae Chapter from any and all liability arising from or in connection with the taking, use, publication, or dissemination of such materials. Copies of these photos may be distributed to the parent upon request.
Parent /Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date

Section 7: Consent Forms Cont'd
WORKSHOP PERMISSION

I grant permission of my daughter, {studentName32} , to participate in the workshops presented to the participants of the Delta Academy program sponsored by the Orlando Alumnae Chapter. I understand that most of the workshops are listed in the Delta Academy/Orlando Alumnae Chapter yearly calendar.
If you have any objectionable topics, please list them and sign below:
Parent/Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
FIELD TRIP PERMISSION

As the parent/guardian of, {studentName32} , I hereby give consent for her to attend field trips with Delta Academy Program sponsored by the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

My daughter and I understand that she is to comply with all rules and regulations established by all representatives of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

I understand that precautions will be taken to ensure my daughter’s safety. I, therefore, will not hold the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. or any representatives of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. responsible for any complication, injury, or illness experienced by my daughter.

Field trips are subject to change, and notification is at the discretion of Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Parent/Guardian Name

First NameLast Name
Parent/Guardian Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date

Picture, References, and Transcript Uploads
Please upload a recent picture. The picture will help us get to know and identify the participants prior to our first session. It is important to us that we know each young lady by name and face early in the program.
Recent Picture

Cancelof
Three (3) References:

- Teacher or School Counselor
- Employer
- Minister/Church leader
- A Sponsor/advisor of any affiliation/organization
- A member of a Greek sorority or fraternity

*** Please provide the name and contact information for your references below. If needed, we may reach out to them for additional information. We recommend letting your reference know that they might be contacted regarding your application***
Reference #1 Name

First NameLast Name
Reference #1 Occupation
Reference #1 Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Reference #2 Name

First NameLast Name
Reference #2 Occupation
Reference #2 Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Reference #3 Name

First NameLast Name
Reference #3 Occupation
Reference #3 Phone Number
Please enter a valid phone number.Format: (000) 000-0000.
Upload an official copy of your 4th quarter report card. An unofficial transcript with current GPA from your guidance counselor may be used too. We must be able to see your name and GPA within the upload.
Report Card

Cancelof

Section 8: Delta Academy Code of Conduct Statement
I will cooperate with all adults in charge. I will be sensitive to the needs of each participant. I will respect the people and places with which I come in contact.

I will adhere to the Delta ACADEMY dress code.

I will participate in required activities & discussions, be on time for all scheduled activities, and be open to new ideas. In the event I must miss an event, I will contact a member of the Delta ACADEMY Committee at least 24 hours ahead of the activity.

I understand that obscene language and the use of alcohol, tobacco, and illegal or unauthorized drugs, and fighting will not be tolerated. Such usage during the activity may result in immediate dismissal from the program.

I will remember that I am a member of a program sponsored by the women of Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and I must abide by a high standard of conduct. My behavior will reflect the high values and expectations for conduct described in this code of conduct and lady like etiquette.

I will be responsible for all my personal belongings.

I understand that I will receive two warnings for unacceptable behavior. After two warnings, my parent/guardian may be notified. I understand if I am sent home early due to any misconduct, it will be my parent’s responsibility to provide transportation regardless of the time of day or night. I also understand that any additional costs for transportation will be my parent’s responsibility.

I understand that more than (2) absences may result in me being dropped from the program and may also prohibit me from being able to participate on any field trips.

I understand that my attitude and behavior are central to the success of this activity sponsored by the Orlando Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Therefore, for the good of this activity, as well as for myself and my fellow group members, I agree to abide by the statements above:
Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
As the parent/guardian, I understand and agree with the above responsibilities fully accepted by my daughter. Should it be necessary, I will provide transportation for my daughter regardless of the time or day or night. I will not hold Orlando Alumnae Chapter or its members responsible if my daughter is sent home early due to misconduct.
Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date

THE CONTRACT (The First Meeting)
OAC DELTA ACADEMY

I will strive for discipline and dedication in all that I do.

I will keep an open mind.

I will respect other’s space, opinion and time.

I will ask for help and help others when needed. I will be on time for all sessions and activities.

I will take responsibility for my actions.

I will not strike out (physically/verbally) in anger.

I will listen to what others have to say.

There is to be no teasing or prying.

I will show everyone respect.

What happens and what is said within the group stays within the group.

Group members should feel free to discuss their thoughts and feelings knowing they need not feel bashful, shy, or worry that friends or people outside the group will find out things they’d rather keep private.

I will trust my group members.

There will be no blaming and no lying.

I will complete all my homework assignments.

I will be positive and try to encourage everyone in my group.

If you agree to all the above, sign below
Student Name

First NameLast Name
Student Signature
Date

MonthDayYear
Date
Should be Empty:

DELTA ACADEMY APPLICATION 2026-2027

Delta Academy Program Information

Delta Academy Important Dates and Deadlines

Section 1: Applicant Information

Parent/Guardian Information

Personal Information

Section 2: Applicant Questions

Section 2: Applicant Questions cont'd

Section 3: Transportation Information

Section 4: Emergency Contact Information

Section 5: Applicant Health Information

Section 6: Authorization for Medical Treatment

Section 7: Consent Forms

Section 7: Consent Forms Cont'd

Picture, References, and Transcript Uploads

Section 8: Delta Academy Code of Conduct Statement

THE CONTRACT (The First Meeting)