Mateo Rand from Program 16 is a 6^th grader at John Thomas Dye School. His flag football team just won its championship in a decisive victory against Laurence School.

Mateo and I first met when he was a 4^th grader at Daniel Freeman Elementary in Inglewood. I worked in small groups with some of the higher achieving Dreamers there, doing problem-solving with math games and critical thinking with novels. Since I was formerly a teacher at John Thomas Dye School and am still associated with the school through substituting, I urged Mateo (and his family) to consider applying. Mateo did just that, was accepted, and this is his third year there. He loves school, has many friends, and is excelling in his studies. (All A’s on his last report card.)

Congratulations, Mateo!

–Christiane Cuse, IHADLA Board member and Program 16 Volunteer Sponsor

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Mentoring Works

A Blog by Amber Brown, 7th Grade Dreamer from Inglewood