A New Perspective

Protégé Delaney wanted “to get away from the drama” and to make sure he graduated.

He found that and more – much more. Reynolds Learning Academy, an alternative high school, offered a smaller calmer setting and participating in Root 2 Rise  “genuinely makes me happy to come to school every day.

“I am definitely more patient. The kids listen to me, and I need to listen to them and think before I say things to them. I realize that feelings matter. “ 

He’s also become more outgoing. “I used to not talk much to people and after doing R2R I have met about 30 people because I am more comfortable making conversation,” he said

Delaney knows he makes a difference when he works with fourth graders helping Partner Teacher Liz Staver at Salish Ponds Elementary School.

Due to his encouragement, a student who seldom remained seated and refused to do her work now completes assignments and is “excited to finish and show me what she has done.

 “Most kids just need some motivation and attention to get them on track,” he said. Helping younger students “brightens my day,” he said, as does being greeted by the office staff every morning.

“The kids are almost always positive,” he said  “This experience has changed my perspective about the world.”