By: SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS

Dr. Yanique Rolingson, a Madison resident and former educator, is investing in North Alabama students through her new nonprofit, S.N.A.P. Academy, and her recently released book, A Lamp to Their Path.

MADISON, Ala. — For Dr. Yanique Rolingson, education has never been just about curriculum or test scores. It has always been about purpose, equity, and ensuring students and educators are truly supported.

A Madison resident originally from Jamaica, Rolingson brings nearly 20 years of experience in education, beginning her career in New Jersey before serving as an educator and instructional coach in Decatur and Madison County. In August 2025, she stepped away from the traditional school system to launch S.N.A.P. Academy, a nonprofit literacy and academic coaching program designed to strengthen foundational skills and student confidence.

Just months later, Rolingson released her first book, A Lamp to Their Path, a reflective work centered on educators and others who work closely with children.

“I noticed how many teachers felt tired, unseen, and disconnected from the purpose that first brought them into the profession,” Rolingson said. “The book invites people to pause, reflect, and remember why their work still matters.”

S.N.A.P.—short for Stop, Notice, Action, Plan—serves students in grades two through six, with a strong focus on reading, writing, and thoughtful reflection. Rolingson said the program was created after witnessing children advance academically without fully mastering foundational skills.

“S.N.A.P. isn’t tutoring in the traditional sense,” she said. “It’s academic coaching. We work in small groups, partner closely with families, and focus on building thinkers, not just test takers.”

Families typically connect with the program through schools, churches, libraries, counselors, and community referrals. Each student enters through a conversation-based intake and brief assessment, allowing instruction to be tailored to individual needs.

Rolingson said Madison County’s rapid growth makes strong educational support systems essential.

“This is home for me now,” she said. “I believe in investing where you’re planted.”

A Lamp to Their Path is available through Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Rolingson plans to visit local bookstores and libraries in 2026 to engage educators and families.

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