Opportunity Youth Academy (OYA) is a program offering students the chance to get their high school diploma if they have left a traditional high school. This program offers both online and teacher-directed lessons. This gives more responsibility to the students.
Due to the environment that the hybrid program offers, students often benefit from on-site tutors. The tutors can guide them through the online part of the curriculum. One of our tutors, Michelle Valerio, was able to positively influence many students. And she had a unique experience with one student.
Michelle’s story –
“Going into the Opportunity Youth Academy (OYA) program, I was a little apprehensive. Regardless of the experience I have working with students, there is always that adjustment period as I try to break the ice. But it was nice to get to know the students as I helped them in their schoolwork.
While working at the Sobrato site for the program, I had the opportunity to work with Alexandria, who was a senior at the time. Alexandria was a few credits away from graduating and needed help staying on task so she could finish her assignments by the deadline to graduate that winter.
As I helped her in English, brainstorming ideas for essays, and reading passages to answer questions, we discussed our favorite books and sports we played in school. I also shared my experience as a transfer student when I learned Alexandria wanted to transfer to Cal Poly to major in Music.
Upon the completion of the program, I felt great knowing I made a difference in OYA’s students’ academic life.”
Michelle left a lasting impression on the students that she helped. Those students left a lasting impression on her as well. The difference she made in the students’ lives did not go unnoticed.
We appreciate your work, Michelle!
Tutor, Michelle Valerio
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