The midyear juncture is always a season of progress and planning at Student Leadership Network. We are fully immersed in another school year of triumphs, opportunities, challenges, and the work required to ensure that we are well-positioned for short and long-term impact. This is also a wonderful time of year as we witness the seeds of our labor bear fruit with students receiving early decision college acceptances and distinguished scholarship awards.
Due in part to the efforts of our directors of college counseling (DCCs), we have six POSSE Scholarship winners and 12 Questbridge Scholars this year. Additionally, 1,934 Class of 2024 students across our 27 partner schools have already earned admission to at least one institution.
In light of the geopolitical conflict, which has only proliferated, we found it necessary to provide our staff with training in how to engage in productive dialogue. Jason Craige Harris facilitated two workshops to which we invited our principals who have been grappling with heightened conflict in their school communities ever since October 7th. While we are relieved that the NYC Public Schools Chancellor announced special training for school leaders in the months ahead, we were eager to offer a resource and our support during this difficult time.
We are thrilled by the success of our recent in-person events, which have strengthened the bonds within our community, students, and alumni. As we eagerly anticipate spring, we look forward to celebrating milestones like college signing days and graduations, which signify the culmination of our students’ hard work and the start of new opportunities. Alongside these celebrations, we remain committed to optimizing our expansion strategy to reach and support even more students.
As we embrace the energy of the season, let’s renew our dedication to our mission of empowering individuals through education. Together, we’ll continue to make a profound impact on the lives of students, ensuring they have the resources and support needed to succeed.
Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication as we work towards a brighter future for all.
Always my best,
Yolonda Marshall
Chief Executive Officer