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Spirit NYS initiates Operations

We launched in September 2021 at Franklin Upper. In Late 2021, and early 2022, we extended operations to two other schools, Edison and Northeast High School. Enrollment included 22 at Franklin, 10 at Edison, and 7 at Northeast High School. Our primary mission is to enable homeless students to remain in school through graduation. We can report an unqualified success.

The Environment is Challenging

Our success is even more notable given the tumultuous conditions due to the COVID pandemic, which impacted the schools, transportation, and attendance. Additionally, there was increased violence in and around the schools

Many students were directly impacted by COVID due to the loss of caregivers (grandparents or parents) and/or contracting COVID themselves. Despite the numerous challenges, they persevered and have graduated or are on track to graduate.

Homeless Students Face Difficult Issues…Examples from our Students

  • Lives in a shelter with mom and sisters
  • Found mother dead in the house – moving around seeking stability
  • Moves from house to house – home insecure
  • Father is going to jail for four years – and his mom is out of the picture
  • Mom just passed away
  • Constant struggles with family issues – lack of strong parental support
  • Transgender student – struggling with their mother’s acceptance of this
  • Twins – living with a sibling with guardianship – sibling kicked them out (CPS involved)

Outstanding Results – Powerful Impact

  • Of 39 enrollees, 19 are graduating this summer, 15 remain enrolled and will return in the fall, and 5 have dropped from the program
  • Two have won college scholarships
  • Three have won prestigious awards
    • 2 NYS Atty. Gen. Triple C awards and one Susan B Anthony award
  • One enrollee had failed all his courses and dropped out of school. When he heard of the Spirit NYS Program, he asked to reenter school, was readmitted, has a 2.83 GPA, is taking summer school, and will graduate in August with his cohort.
  • Collectively GPAs improved by 50%. 5 students at Franklin went from E or D students to B+ or A students.

Looking Forward

  • Our results will grow with the continued support of our schools, mentors, volunteers, and donors. With increased donations, we can support many more of the homeless teens of Rochester.