The School Days Foundation | Excellence & Exposure | Where Basketball Becomes Mentorship

The School Days Foundation is a youth development organization focused on excellence, exposure, and measurable impact. While basketball serves as one of the tools used to engage students, this documentary centers on the broader developmental outcomes that occur through mentorship, structure, and intentional programming.

The film features the perspectives of parents whose children participate in the program, along with reflections from a former participant. Their voices provide insight into how off-the-court programming, leadership development, and real-world experiences translate into academic growth, personal responsibility, and life readiness.

Off-the-court experiences are documented throughout the film, while being paired with select on-court footage to illustrate how discipline, accountability, and preparation developed away from competition carry over into confident and consistent performance in athletic settings.

Program outcomes further reflect this approach. The basketball program's first graduating class achieved strong postsecondary placement across college, skilled trades, and collegiate athletics. On the court, the basketball program demonstrated sustained competitive success, culminating in a 71 percent winning percentage across all teams during the 2025 season.

The School Days Foundation was founded by Dr. Eric Thomas, whose vision centers on creating environments where young people are supported, challenged, and equipped to succeed. His leadership and philosophy of mentorship, and purpose inform the organization’s approach to youth development and are reflected throughout the programming highlighted in this film.

This documentary presents a holistic model of youth development, one that emphasizes relationships, consistency, and long-term growth. It is a case study in how mentorship, when paired with structure and opportunity, can positively shape student outcomes both on and off the court.