As the journey to provide all students with the resources necessary to succeed in life continues, increased expectations cause the requirement for higher education to have more importance. Recognizing these expectations, Communities In Schools (CIS) of Georgia hosted a one-week summer program for 34 recent high-school graduates on the campus of Clayton State University. The highlight of the program included an educational trip to New York City where participants visited universities, parks and other notable monuments. The relationship between CIS and the youth stemmed from their participation in the College Success Corps program this past school year. Students came from five different counties including Ben Hill, Cobb, Douglas, Laurens, and Turner.
Program staff consisted of CIS site coordinators, teachers, college students and recent college graduates. These individuals constructed several program objectives, which were to provide college transition training, mentoring support, and exposure to career opportunities.
Students attended workshops dedicated towards teaching academic preparation, proper etiquette, leadership and everyday college life. The males and females were split into groups. In some workshops, male students and mentors discussed making smart decisions and being responsible. The female students participated in a “Divas In Defense” class where they were instructed on how to physically protect themselves from dangerous situations and verbally demand respect from others.
Students such as Netanya Kellam, from Laurens County, have benefited from being involved with CIS initiatives and programs for several years. Kellam discussed how CIS programs have opened her eyes to the numerous options she has after high school. When asked what value she has taken away from such programs, she shared, “My experience with CIS has taught me how to grow up and find the drive to get things done; no one is going to hold your hand.”
Program mentor, Christopher Lewis, served as a direct representation of the effect CIS can have on an at-risk student. As a rising sophomore at Benedict College in Columbia, SC, Lewis credited success during his freshman year to the commitment of CIS to provide him with a smooth transition from high school to college life. Majoring in music with a 4.0 GPA, he avidly expressed interest in returning back to Baldwin County to teach by stating, “If I can change the life of a child, it would be the top of my dreams and aspirations.”
Visit the CIS of Georgia Facebook page to see photos from this year’s summer program. To volunteer as a mentor in your area, visit the CIS of Georgia local affiliate listing (link out) to find an affiliate near you.