Community Pride

Earlier this evening, my mother and I made our way to DeJean Middle School where myself along with other participants of the Ivy League Connection Program were presented to the WCCUSD School Board. Once we arrived, I realized just how dedicated and passionate members of our community are about education. There truly was a buzz of activity.

Once inside the building, my mother and I made our way to a group of fellow ILCers. I quickly found the Columbia group and joined them. Ms. L explained to us the best way to situate ourselves and how to hold the flag when introduced to the School Board.  After everyone understood what was going on, participants of Ivy League Connection had the opportunity to converse with on another. I met several people from different cohorts and also chatted with some of my friends from El Cerrito High. We talked until 6:30 PM when the School Board meeting promptly came to order. 

After reciting the Pledge of Allegiance, a few members of the community spoke regarding the transfer of a district program for expelled students to the hands of the county. Three members of the community were against this move because they felt it was rushed and might jeopardize the progress of the students. The School Board decided, however, that it was not economically feasible to continue funding this school and that the county is more than capable of providing resources for the students.

Our cohort being presented

After this issue had been both addressed and resolved, it was time for those involved with the Ivy League Connection Program to be introduced. Each chaperone spoke on behalf of their cohort and presented each of us separately to the School Board. In addition to this, each a member of each cohort made a speech. I must say, Simon represented our cohort very well! Next our sponsors, the people who make it possible for every participant in the ILC to succeed, were introduced and thanked by the School Board and the local community.

After every group had been introduced, four graduates of the Ivy League Connection Program spoke. Their speeches were both articulate and inspiring. They reflected upon everything the ILC had provided for them and how much they had gained from the program. They were challenged, and because of this they grew immensely. The ILC gave them the confidence and knowledge to go out and succeed in the world and they were confident it would do the same for us.

Mr. Ramsey and Mrs. Kronenberg then made some final statements about The ILC. They emphasized how much The ILC has grown and how it has truly benefited not only those involved, but the entire community. It is one of a kind, and words cannot describe how honored I am to be part of it.

Finally, everyone in the Ivy League Connection took a huge group picture. Somehow, Don directed all of us to a location where we would be visible in the picture. After taking about fifty shots, we were done and free to head home. Tonight’s School Board meeting really enabled me to see the significance of the Ivy League Connection Program and how much of a privilege it is to be a part of it.