“New Beginnings for Our Students”
On August 26, 2011, I moved a recent high school graduate into her college dorm room at Brandeis University, in Waltham,MA. On September 1, I helped a Newbury College, in Boston,MA student move into his first apartment off campus and on September 4, I moved a former Massasoit Community College student into her dorm room at Bridgewater State University. I moved 3 students into college in one week. How awesome is that?!
All three of these students have been affected by homelessness in different ways. It gave me goose bumps each time I carried in their dorm supplies: sheets, towels, comforter, toiletries, fan, water bottles etc. Dorm supplies are paid for through our High School Plus funding.
I took pictures of our students sitting at their desks, standing next to their new roommate, or sitting on their dorm bed. It is incredibly inspiring to see how homeless students have overcome huge challenges and obstacles to reach this point in their lives.
I could see the hope and joy on their faces as I hugged them goodbye and told them I would check in with them soon. I had tears in my eyes as I drove away from campus. I silently prayed that they would make many new friends, have creative professors and become a part of their college community.
We have 15 School on Wheels students enrolled in college this fall through our High School Plus program. This program focuses on helping high school students impacted by homelessness stay in school, graduate, and go onto a post-secondary education. We want all of our students to reach their full potential through a higher education.
I started School on Wheels seven years ago to help break the cycle of homelessness one student at a time. I know that through our High School Plus program we are moving towards this goal.
Our educational support services and caring mentors provide opportunities for our students to create a new beginning.
Cheryl Opper
Founder and Executive Director
