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Dear Reader,
I hope this email finds you well! As we wrap up another semester of programming, we are thrilled to share some highlights and achievements from our incredible students and staff.
Recently, students from Northwestern, High Point, Bladensburg, and Parkdale High Schools came together to give powerful testimonies at the Prince George's County Council budget hearing. Representing Liberty's Promise, they spoke eloquently on critical issues such as finding a sense of belonging in a new place and closing the opportunity gap in the county; issues that the programming of Liberty's Promise help to address. In Baltimore County, our program officer Alex Cepeda also made a significant impact by presenting at the United Way of Central Maryland Changemaker Challenge, where LP emerged as a $15,000 grant winner!
Additionally, our students at West Potomac High School hosted visitors from the Whiting-Turner Contracting Co., a nationwide construction management and general contracting company. Project Managers Brendan Hesselbein and Laura Ferrer shared their experiences in overseeing a range of building projects, from inception to completion. The visit provided our students with valuable insights into different career paths and the collaborative nature of the construction industry.
As we look forward to celebrating our graduating seniors this month, we are proud to announce several outstanding accomplishments of our students in Fairfax County. Genesis from West Potomac High School received a $40,000 scholarship from the Akerson Family Foundation and will be pursuing her studies at George Mason University. Allison from Lewis High School was accepted into the George Mason University Gateway Program, allowing her to study Kinesiology in South Korea during her second semester. Finally, Yoryi made a speech at the West Potomac High School graduation as Student of the Year, marking a significant milestone in his academic journey. We are incredibly proud of all our students and their achievements!
Warm regards,
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This spring, we partnered with Civic Circle at Northwood High School and Wheaton High School. Civic Circle is a local nonprofit dedicated to bringing democracy alive for young learners through music and drama. At Northwood, students created artwork reflecting the steps of democracy as part of Civic Circle's curriculum. They then had the joy of presenting their creations to local elementary school students, inspiring them to become active citizens by learning, listening, and engaging with their community. At Wheaton, we conducted a four-workshop series with a spoken-word poet/rapper and singer/songwriter, who worked with the students to create performance art around advocacy and civic engagement.
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This semester, students at West Potomac High School engaged in local civic life through a Community Data Walk organized by the Fairfax County Health Department. This event offered a unique opportunity to understand key health concerns and provide input for the county's next Community Health Improvement Plan. From education to employment, health to drugs, students delved into statistics divided by neighborhoods, sparking insightful discussions. They were asked about their most surprising findings, their thoughts on why various neighborhoods face distinct challenges, and to identify the top issues that should be prioritized for the department's focus. Their input will help shape the future of Fairfax County's health policy.
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This semester, our students had the opportunity to explore higher education through various college field trips. Highlights include John F. Kennedy High School's visit to Towson University, where students toured the campus, explored the University Union building's food hall and school store, and walked through the Liberal Arts building. They even had the chance to sit in one of the spacious classrooms and see the new nursing studies building under construction. Additionally, Lansdowne Middle School students visited the Community College of Baltimore County, where they listened to the hearts of computer-tech babies, and enthusiastically participated in an automotive demonstration, even snapping pictures with Camaros and Corvettes!
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This semester has been brimming with career exploration for both middle and high school students. At the middle school level, Ms. Lissett Johnson, a Financial Inclusion Leader from Truist Bank, provided invaluable insights into banking and financial basics, emphasizing the role of banks in public assistance, the significance of credit, and the development of budgeting skills. Meanwhile, Roosevelt High School students benefited from diverse visits, including enlightening discourse from Mr. Heber Munoz, an architect, who offer details on educational requirements and the scope of architectural projects. Furthermore, a visit to DC Fire Department Engine Co. 22's new station ignited enthusiasm among students, prompting some to consider firefighting careers. Throughout the semester, students also gained insights into professions such as real estate, law, graphic design, cyber security, and engineering.
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This month's Alumni Spotlight shines bright on Sherif, an alumni from our program at Alexandria City High School. Sherif graduated in 2021 and has since embarked on an inspiring journey, currently serving in the United States Marine Corps.
Click below to hear his story!
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Maryland
Virginia
Washington, DC
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Questions?
Contact us at info@libertyspromise.org
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