February 11, 2022

Isabella Brady-Prankus is new education director at The Gray House

REGIONAL
Staff report

(iObserve photo/courtesy of The Gray House)

SPRINGFIELD – Isabella Brady-Prankus joined The Gray House as their Education Director this past January. Brady-Prankus is responsible for running the adult education programs at The Gray House, as well as oversight of the Kids’ Club after school and summer program. 

“I am very excited to be joining an amazing group of individuals that make up the adult education and Kid’s Club programs here at The Gray House,” said Brady-Prankus. “Both programs embody a passion for learning and community that can be seen through the dedication and hard work students and volunteers alike demonstrate when they walk through the doors of the classroom. 

“From the moment I experienced the first class, I knew that the programs at The Gray House weren’t just about providing a place for students to learn, but a place where adults and children can come to be with likeminded individuals who are interested in learning what they can to grow,” she said. “Each person that I have gotten the chance to know has a relationship that goes beyond just student and teacher and that is what I believe creates the magic that is The Gray House.”

Kristen McClintock, executive director at The Gray House said, “I am excited to have Isabella be a part of our staff. Her energy and commitment to our mission and the people we serve is an incredible asset to our organization.”

Brady-Prankus is a graduate of Western New England University with a bachelor of science in business administration degree and a master’s degree in business administration. She was recently the executive assistant at the East of the River Five Town Chamber of Commerce and is a resident of Longmeadow, along with her cat, Precious.

The mission of The Gray House is to help its neighbors facing hardships to meet their immediate and transitional needs by providing food, clothing, and educational services in a safe, positive environment. The adult education program focuses on helping migrants, refugees and asylees improve their English language skills while incorporating life skills. The goal of the program is to help them gain self-sufficiency, better integrate into their community and give them the skills needed to break the cycle of poverty. 

The Kids’ Club after school and summer programs provide a safe, supportive and encouraging environment where children can learn, grow, and succeed. The program serves children in grades two through five who live in Springfield. During the school year, the children receive academic support, participate in engaging activities, and enjoy a nutritious snack, while surrounded by supportive and positive role models. During the four-week summer program, the focus is on maintaining their literacy levels through reading and journaling; engage in fun activities, games and crafts; and participating in field trips, providing the children with new experiences and adventures.