My name is Jaylee. This is my second time testifying before you. I am now a senior – set to graduate in June and planning to attend art school next year. I’m on the right path. However, not all my friends and classmates are going to see graduation day. Some dropped out, others passed away. It’s devastating because I know they had the potential to graduate. I’m speaking today because I care about all these students and I want them to have the support they need to stay on track for the future.
When I got into trouble my freshman year, there were deans and a whole team of staff who held me accountable for my actions and helped me see I was going down the wrong path. There was a system in place to help me turn things around. This system was led by staff who cared enough about my potential and weren’t willing to let me give up on myself. They connected me to a student mentor who helped me understand that I could get back on track if I put in the effort. Mentors are a big reason why I am able to see my potential. I also had a dean who mentored me and encouraged me to prioritize my future. My grandmother immigrated from Costa Rica and worked hard to provide me with opportunities for education. Thanks to the mentorship from my dean, I am now striving to make sure the next generation has an even better future. Without mentors, I don’t think I would be here advocating for other youth like me. Together, these mentors and support structure helped me realize my goals and path for the future. I knew I had people who wanted to help me succeed.
This year, I see younger classmates who are too distracted by all the chaos that goes on. There are fights, there are students hanging out in the bathroom all day and skipping class. These students do not have anyone holding them accountable and helping them focus on their future. Students need a learning environment where they have teachers and deans who want to see them succeed – like I did. Students need attention, they need a school that cares about them and their growth. And every student should have the opportunity to have access to a mentor, someone who will always remind them of their potential and capabilities.
I only have three months left in high school but I care about the future of this school beyond my time. Please fund safe and supportive schools so that future students can access the mentors and support structure they need to realize their full potential. I plan to return to my school to be a mentor and I hope by the time I come back students are able to feel the change and support.
Thank you for taking the time to hear my statement.
