Speaking at the Summit!

I’m proud to share that two of our students were chosen to speak at a recent summit organized by Mayor Bloomberg's inter-agency task force to combat chronic absenteeism! The students spoke honestly about the reasons behind their low attendance in the past – from lack of interest in school to personal issues in their homes. The reason they were chosen to speak however was to highlight the instrumental role their mentors are playing in raising their attendance and achievement.

One student, a high school freshman, shared that her mentor is someone who gives her hope by helping her manage the challenging social and academic transition from middle to high school, by developing an action plan to raise her grades, and by simply checking in on her each day. For the first time in this student’s life she feels confident in her ability to achieve!

The other student, a junior, spoke about his mentor as someone he can relate to and trust, who empowers him to succeed in school, and who is always there to speak to, in and outside of school. As the student said his relationship with his mentor makes him feel the confidence that “If he can do it, I can do it”.

While the two students represented different personal circumstances both compelled the audience with their vision and sense of hope for their future, which they attributed to the positive relationships they have with their mentors. It is so rewarding to know that our mentors are making a difference in students’ lives!