How authentic Connections Transform Classrooms
Partnering with your adopt a class Liaison
Walking into a fifth-grade classroom as a banker, trying to teach financial literacy, was daunting. How could terms like “interest rates” matter to kids more interested in their phones than money management?
That’s how Kenneth and his Republic Bank colleagues first felt when they started mentoring through Adopt A Class. But thanks to their liaison, Polly, the team learned two truths: never walk in with fear, and never walk in fake. Kids can spot both instantly.
Armed with that guidance, Kenneth’s team entered the classroom differently, and left changed. Instead of feeling drained, they walked out energized, inspired to return.
There was one visit that really impacted his team. A new student kept his hood pulled tight, face hidden, disengaged from the lesson. The breakthrough came when one bilingual mentor spoke to him in Spanish. In that moment, his face lifted, the hood came down, and he connected; not just with the mentor, but with the classroom community.
That transformation was powerful. A simple language connection unlocked belonging and engagement.
Kenneth reflects that it wasn’t really about teaching banking at all. It was about showing up authentically, being present, and finding ways to connect. Those connections turned apprehension into energy, and classrooms into spaces where both mentors and students thrived.
As Kenneth said, “Kids know right away if you’re scared or if you’re faking it. But when you show up with a heart, they’ll let you in.”
Ready to show up with heart? Just Say YES to mentorship.
About Kenneth Webb: Kenneth Webb is Vice President and Senior Regional Community Development Officer at Republic Bank, serving Northern Kentucky and the Cincinnati region. Throughout his career, he has focused on expanding opportunity and building stronger communities, earning recognition as the first person of color to chair Leadership Northern Kentucky, receiving the Inclusive Excellence Award from the Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce, and being honored by the Cincinnati Open’s 513 Serves Program. His work reflects a deep commitment to equity, mentorship, and service, values he continues to champion through his involvement with Adopt A Class.