Meet principal tracy Pickard
“Called” to prepare middle schoolers for high school, Principal Tracey Pickard is on a mission: Ignite Excellence and lift Ranson Middle School from an F to a C within three years. Jane’s Fund is all in to help her get there.
In North Carolina, schools receive a letter grade based on two factors: student achievement on standardized tests and academic growth from year to year. A schools are high-achieving, C schools are average, and F schools—those scoring under 40—are identified as low-performing and needing additional support.
Now imagine an F school as a melting scoop of ice cream. When a strong leader like Principal Pickard arrives, she becomes the bowl and the freezer—strengthening the staff. Jane’s Fund provides the utensils and toppings, supplying the resources and opportunities typically found in A and B schools and most private schools.
We Focus on Schools Like Ranson
Few or no community partners
Often no PTA
Lacking access to opportunities common in A/B schools and private schools
Our work begins with building trusting relationships: listening, helping, and responding quickly.
What Jane’s Fund Provides
Working with Principal Pickard over the summer, Jane’s Fund committed to:
School Store – $10,000
Students earn tickets for academic, attendance, and behavioral success to “purchase” sweatshirts, hygiene items, Crocs, water bottles, art supplies, sports equipment, and more.
Field Trips – $42,000
Grade-level learning experiences with family fundraising goals:
6th: Whitewater Center
7th: Atlanta
8th: Washington, DC
New School Team System Support – $2,000
Painted murals and team T-shirts to promote healthy competition, teamwork, and service.
Staff Morale Boost – $10,500
A one-time meal and $100 for every staff member when motivation dips.
Rapid Response
When life happens and the “bowl tips” or students need a second scoop because they’re thriving, Jane’s Fund steps in—often within 1–2 days:
Scholarships for 50 girls to join the flag football team
Sponsorship for the Robotics Team to compete in Digital-Bridge (they placed 2nd)
A championship celebration dinner for the Ranson Raiders football team
Hundreds of urgently needed computer chargers on the morning standardized testing began
A Principal Who Believes
“JF helps bridge the gap,” says Principal Pickard. “They are a thought partner, providing field trips and opportunities for our students—Jane's Fund believes in our school and knows what can happen when all children have access. "
Principal Pickard refuses to complain, give up, or accept defeat. She challenges her scholars and staff while celebrating the miracles she sees every day in her "students’ curiosity, possibility, and promise. Several students emailed this week asking to start a chess club,” she exclaims, and Jane's Fund shares her joy.
Please Raise Your Hand to Help Principal Pickard and Her Ranson Raiders RISE!
