Supporting SEED Graduates - Navigating Unexpected Challenges During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Back-to-school season is usually a busy travelling time for The SEED Foundation’s College Transition and Success (CTS) team. Our advisors are visiting every recent high school graduate at their college campuses, hosting a College Prep Boot Camp at a local university for all SEED seniors as they prepare for high school graduation, and making certain our older graduates are navigating any obstacles that could hinder their goals of college completion.

This year, our work looks a bit different and our graduates are adjusting to a variety of learning formats—from a full remote schedule, to in-person and on campus, or to a hybrid mixture of the two.

Though our advisors cannot meet with graduates in person, the CTS team is still providing the same high-quality intrusive advising supports. For example, instead of walking next to our graduates on campus during a college outreach visit, we are developing creative ways to create a similar experience—like virtual walking calls or remotely joining our graduates while they attend meetings or take classes. Our College Prep Boot Camp was held remotely this month and hosted all high school seniors from SEED Maryland, SEED DC, and SEED Miami. Topics discussed included an interactive review of the college application process, college matching, essay writing, and financial aid. And for our older graduates, we remain focused on ensuring that not only do they have the tools and resources to successfully shift to a remote learning platform, but that they are also physically safe, emotionally healthy, and aren’t facing dire financial circumstances due to the pandemic.  

Through our increased phone calls, personal video advising sessions, and surveys, we have discovered the economic burden that many of our graduates now confronted. “More than 60 percent of our graduates enrolled in college are experiencing financial strain. We are there to help them problem solve, evaluate their options, and to offer resources,” shared Joi Baker Jones, director of college transition and success at The SEED Foundation.

As the impacts of the pandemic continue to unfold, our advisors are gauging any new obstacles our graduates face, and through our proactive approach, we can effectively help our students find their way. Learn more about our College Transition and Success programming and how you can get involved.

Social and Emotional Learning – A Priority with Remote Learning

At SEED, checking in on the well-being of each student has always been a priority. “We’re committed to making sure our students are emotionally okay. We have created an environment where kindness and compassion are key and where our students know that we care,” shared Brian Rahaman, head of school at SEED DC.

The shift to remote learning sparked the opportunity to evaluate our current social and emotional supports. Over the summer, SEED leaders convened to ensure that our programming was being consistently implemented across the SEED network and that our students are also being supported while learning from home. Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process through which children and adults understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships, and make responsible decisions.

After a vetting process, four practices to keep our schools aligned around SEL were chosen.

Using these practices, our team can make certain all SEED students have the support they need to fully engage, to maintain or renew their confidence in learning, and to ultimately increase their academic achievement. “Because of the pandemic, remote learning, and the trauma our students may be facing, incorporating SEL practices throughout our entire program is now more important than ever. It has to be at the forefront of everything we do,” shared Dr. Chloe Marshall, director of leadership and program design at The SEED Foundation.  

How SEL practices show up will differ per classroom. Before jumping into class, several SEED teachers now begin each lesson with a community building exercise or whip-around (an activity that allows students to voice their opinions and thoughts at the start or conclusion of a lesson). Others have chosen to incorporate a reflection period at the end of each class where a current, national topic is discussed, and students are encouraged to journal their thoughts. At SEED DC, an advisory program was designed to provide a structured way to check in frequently with students. “Once a week five to seven students come together to check in and discuss how they are doing personally and how they are managing their academics. This program enables us to check in with our students and to find out what—if any—support is needed,” said Brian Rahaman.

As we approach the completion of our first month of remote learning for the 2020-2021 school year, a community of SEED directors, teachers, and student life staff is forming to evaluate the execution of SEL across the SEED network. This group will share challenges, successes, and recommendations to ensure we are all moving in the right direction and that sustainable practices are being applied. “There is a body of research that shows strong SEL programming leads to greater productivity and increased student achievement/outcomes.  By establishing a SEL Community of Practice, staff can share best practices across the network – moving with greater momentum to impact the lives of students,” shared Dr. Marshall.

Learn more about social and emotional learning and how educators, parents, students, and employers nationally are increasingly recognizing the value of SEL.

Crafting the Best Remote Learning Environment – Our Commitment to our Students

When SEED students received their class schedules this summer, many saw some notable changes from the previous year. “We really wanted to put ourselves in the shoes of our students. What would be the best learning experience for them? What will make them want to engage and ultimately lead to the best learning outcomes?” shared Brian Rahaman, head of school at The SEED School of Washington, D.C.

With a key goal to keep all SEED students engaged, one of the biggest changes made included designing a day where students participate in synchronous learning (learning that happens at the same time for the instructor and the students) in the morning and asynchronous learning (learning that allows students to access pre-recorded lectures and digital curriculum materials and respond at their own pace) in the afternoon. “Last year, we saw that after lunch, many of our students would hit a wall, and attendance and participation was being affected. By allowing our students at SEED DC to complete some lessons on their own, it helps them build discipline and to incorporate self-management techniques,” said Dr. Jubria Lewis, director of school improvement at The SEED Foundation.

The students at The SEED School of Miami (SEED Miami) have a slightly different schedule and are learning remotely via live classes for a longer portion of the day. “Being on the computer for eight hours a day is tough. To help our students succeed in this environment, our Student Support Team did extensive planning over the summer. We need our students to be physically present, mentally engaged, and learning, so we connected with parents of students who had attendance issues last year to problem solve. We also have incorporated several fun activities like spirit week and weekly announcements on Fridays that recognize our students’ attendance and engagement,” shared Dr. Kara Locke, head of school at The SEED School of Miami.

Adjustments have also included a more streamlined technical approach. The team at The SEED School of Maryland (SEED MD) has been focused on ensuring all students can easily access their remote classrooms. “By ensuring consistency with our learning platforms, we can make certain our students don’t experience anxiety and confusion when trying to manage links and log-ins. It’s a simple step that can make a big difference,” said Dr. Lewis. 

Change will not hold us back—rather, it will propel us forward. Our schools are already seeing some positive results. With attendance rates consistently near 95%, our students are showing determination to succeed. “Like every school in this country, we have had to figure things out. We are a resilient community, and when we run into issues, we address it quickly and together,” said Dr. Locke.

It's Back to School Season: Virtual Edition

This year's back-to-school season has been anything but normal. Students across the country have swapped shopping for backpacks and lunchboxes for laptops and desks as they prepare to learn from home.

Last week, SEED scholars joined more than half of our nation’s school-age students and returned to school remotely. Equipped with laptops, hotspots, and supplies, our scholars have the tools and the support from their school leaders and teachers that they need to succeed. “I ran into some computer issues on my first day, but I knew exactly who to contact. My student life counselor, Ms. Andrade helped me right away and because of her, my first week was a success. I really appreciate the support system I have,” said Destiny Joyner (SEED MD '23) a sophomore at The SEED School of Maryland.

Our graduates are focused on remaining flexible as colleges and universities alter or reverse their reopening plans. Deborah Omoniyi (SEED MD '20), a freshman at Temple University, began the school year with a hybrid model. She was attending half of her classes remotely and the other half in-person. Unfortunately, by the third week, all of her classes were moved online. “I was disappointed to now have to attend all my classes online, but I understand the importance of staying safe. I’ve made some adjustments, like always asking for help if I need it. This has helped me with mentally handling online learning and sudden changes,” Deborah said. 

Sustaining momentum in a global pandemic is challenging. Millions of us have rearranged our work schedules to accommodate social distancing guidelines and to care for loved ones or children who are home during the day. Even with these changes, we continue to face an endless list of unknowns. That’s why we called on our SEED graduates, who know a thing or two about perseverance and flexibility, to share tips on how they are staying motivated. Here’s what they had to say:

Stay tuned for more highlights on how the SEED community is rising to the occasion. And thank you so much for your support of our scholars!

Our Impact: SEED Welcomes New Leaders to Our Community

SEED is kicking off the 2020–2021 school year by welcoming new school leaders to our community. Meet Kirk Sykes and Brian Rahaman, who will serve as our leaders at SEED MD and SEED DC.   

Kirk Sykes

Kirk Sykes was announced as the new head of school at The SEED School of Maryland on July 1, 2020.

Mr. Sykes brings over 20 years of experience in educational leadership to SEED. Throughout his career, he has worked to balance tradition and innovation to benefit his students and their families. He has a proven record of raising student achievement by establishing professional learning communities, developing meaningful parent and community involvement initiatives, and enhancing school climate and culture.

Mr. Sykes has numerous honors and awards. Chief among them are being named Principal of the Year by the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship, and Administrator of the Year by the College Bound Foundation.

Mr. Sykes holds a bachelor’s degree from Morgan State University and a master’s in education from Coppin State University. He is currently completing doctoral studies at Seton Hall University.  

We are thrilled to have attracted a leader with Mr. Sykes’s commitment, collaborative abilities, integrity, and passion for education.

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Brian Rahaman

Brian Rahaman was announced as the new head of school at The SEED School of Washington, D.C., on June 30, 2020. With a career spanning more than 20 years in education, Mr. Rahaman has committed himself to providing underserved youth with a valuable education.

Mr. Rahaman holds a doctorate in education from the University of Pennsylvania, and he has served as the director of program design at The SEED Foundation for the last five years. He has made a huge impact in this role, for example designing several network initiatives such as the Research Writing Program, improvement science work at SEED DC, and the Annual School Review. We’re so thankful for the work Mr. Rahaman has implemented at The SEED Foundation and are excited about his transition to SEED DC as the new head of school.  

Please congratulate Mr. Brian Rahaman on his new role and join us in welcoming Mr. Kirk Sykes to the SEED Network!

Where Are They Now? Imani Graham (SEED DC ’14, Bennett College ’18) is Building a Career in Education and Community Service

At SEED, we believe that each school year presents an opportunity for students to be engaged, involved, and stimulated by the world around them. That’s why, through SEED’s Experiential Learning and External Opportunities programming, our students study abroad, engage in leadership programs, secure internships, and participate in local and international community service projects.  

Imani Graham began devoting her free time to community service as a sophomore at The SEED School of Washington, D.C. Her commitment to volunteerism continued after she graduated from SEED and led her to helping high school students prepare for the SAT at a local church. She also volunteered during her summers at STEM camps to create lessons plans and to organize fun activities for young campers. 

“While at SEED, I was offered a lot of opportunities to perform community service. I was encouraged to do something I would enjoy—and it always felt good to give back. I graduated from SEED with an award for highest community service.”

Through Imani’s community service blossomed a love for educating, and she is now serving as an educational aid for pre-K 4 students at Tyler Elementary School located in Washington, D.C. Read more about Imani’s path with SEED and how she landed a job she enjoys every day.

What college or university did you attend?

I graduated from Bennett College in 2018. I majored in psychology and minored in sociology.

How was your transition from SEED to college?

My transition from SEED was smooth. I was prepared for dorm life and being away from home—it was already a tool I had on my belt. I was also academically prepared, and I had the support of my College Transition & Success (CTS) advisor and twin sister who also enrolled at Bennett College.

Did you stay connected to SEED while in college?

My CTS advisor was Mr. Jordan Frasier. He would visit all the SEED graduates in the North Carolina area and treat us to dinner. It was always great to reconnect. He would also come on campus, help with any financial aid issues, and send packages and awards to keep us motivated. When he was away, he kept in contact by text, phone calls, and emails—just to make sure I wasn’t running into any challenges I needed support with overcoming.

It was helpful to have someone to communicate with other than my parents. I could chat with Mr. Frasier about school and received the extra encouragement I needed to keep up the good work. 

What are you doing now that you have graduated from college?  

Currently, I am working for DC Public Schools as an educational aid. As an educational aid, I assist the teacher with classroom management, help prepare lessons, and work one-on-one with students that may need extra support. I also am interested in real estate and am currently pursuing my real estate license. I have one more exam, and then I’ll be licensed! 

I also serve as an ambassador for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). I received most of my scholarship awards from this organization before attending Bennett, and remained connected throughout college. I often speak at galas and conferences to share my story and encourage donors to support UNCF to help more African American students get to and through college.

How did your experience at SEED impact you?

Before I came to SEED, I was really shy. SEED pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and offered so many opportunities to experience something new. After my first couple of experiences, I realized how much I enjoyed traveling and volunteering in my community, and it made me want to continue to push myself to try new things. My favorite experiences were camping, attending local plays, and traveling to Greece. I ultimately decided to go to college five hours away because of my experiences at SEED. I am grateful for the encouragement I received—it helped me expand my horizons. 

Meet Our Students: Niya Harling Reflects on Her Time with SEED

Following in her sister’s footsteps, Niya Harling (SEED DC ’20) enrolled at The SEED School of Washington, D.C., six years ago. She was eager to experience dorm living and to develop a greater sense of independence. “I couldn’t wait to sleep in a dorm, have resident advisors, and to become more independent.”

As a rising college freshman, Niya can now officially cross these milestones off her list. This fall, she plans to continue her educational journey at Rutgers University-Camden, where she will study biology. Because of the network she has built while at SEED, Niya feels prepared for this next step. “At SEED, I learned so many skills that I’ll take with me into adulthood. My biggest highlight is making connections with people from all over whom I can call today if I need guidance.”

In Niya’s fourth year at SEED, she was introduced to BUILD, a nonprofit organization dedicated to proving the power of experiential learning through entrepreneurship and igniting the potential of youth in under-resourced communities. With BUILD, Niya learned sign language and participated in various cooking classes to learn how to make her favorite dishes. Niya was also a member of the Cinderella Foundation, a service organization that uses fun and creative programs and activities to engage and motivate girls in the DC metropolitan area. “Being a part of the Cinderella Foundation was my absolute favorite! I met so many young girls like myself with whom I am still friends today.”

As Niya begins her countdown to college move-in day, she’s excited to be one step closer to her goals. “College is a place to work towards your dreams and get a real feel of what adult life is like. I’m excited to experience that.” Niya is also thankful for her college success advisor, Ms. Gwenna Ihrie, who has helped her navigate the college application process. “Ms. Ihrie has helped me tremendously! Without her, my parents and I would have struggled with all the paperwork, meeting deadlines, and more. I’m glad SEED provides help like this.”                                                                                                                     

We’re so proud of Niya’s accomplishments and look forward to following her college journey.

Read more about Niya and meet her fellow 2020 SEED Scholarship recipients.

What We’re Learning: SEED Summit 2020 was a Virtual Success!

The 2020 SEED Summit was nothing short of inspiring, informative, and refreshing! More than 350 staff members from across the SEED Network joined virtually via the Whova App on Thursday, August 13, and Friday, August 14, for two days of community building, professional development, networking, and more. With various workshops led by industry experts within the SEED community, attendees walked away with the latest tips and best practices for increasing student engagement, promoting self-care, and implementing SEED’s culture throughout the network.

Christopher Rooks, math teacher at SEED DC, served as our emcee, kicking of Summit with the energy and excitement we needed to get started! In the initial session, attendees heard from SEED graduates Ralph Mehitang and Maryam Hassan. They shared how SEED prepared them for success in college and beyond. We also heard from heads of school Brian Rahaman (SEED DC), Kirk Sykes (SEED MD), and Kara Locke (SEED Miami), as they shared their plans for the upcoming school year.

“As the new head of school for SEED MD, I have asked staff to support a vision in which we will leverage a system of communication, collaboration, and consistency to provide a rich and rigorous college prep academic environment and student life supports,” Mr. Sykes said.

Day two of Summit started with an informative presentation about the SEED Core Model and our network vision and goals. Led by Hopi Moodie, director of strategic initiatives and special projects at The SEED Foundation, attendees heard from network leaders who discussed the components of the SEED Core Model: College Preparatory Academics, Social & Emotional Learning, and College Knowledge & Advising. Read our latest annual report to learn more about SEED’s Core Model.

Among the most popular Summit workshops was Self-Care: Strategies to Prevent Burnout. In this session, attendees were equipped with strategies to promote self-preservation while teaching and working from home. Melissa Braynon, mental health counselor at SEED Miami and session speaker, encouraged educators to take mindful moments with their students to increase engagement and add variety to their school day. “It is important to take a break sometimes. Get up and stretch and do some deep breathing exercises with your class. Designating workspace that include elements that are soothing for you like aromatherapy, plants, and natural lighting can also help your state of mind,” shared Ms. Braynon.

To say that the 2020 SEED Summit was a success is an understatement. Providing members of The SEED Network with a forum to connect virtually and grow professionally is a vital part of our work at SEED. We look forward to continuing this tradition next year!

Meet Our Students: Alizey Seymour (SEED DC ‘20) Seeks to Build her Business Expertise at Bentley University

When Alizey Seymour (SEED DC ’20) was eleven years old, she was enrolled at her neighborhood school and waitlisted for acceptance into The SEED School of Washington, D.C. “I was attending a different school when my mom called me and told me I had been pulled off the waitlist and was accepted to SEED. I was so excited for the opportunity to be in a new environment that would push me academically and to have the space to become more independent.” Now as a recent high school graduate, Alizey credits SEED for giving her the academic, social, and emotional support to enroll in college and achieve her dreams of becoming a successful businesswoman.

At SEED, Alizey was an active member of the track and field team, the National Honor Society, and Peer Group Connection, where she served as a counselor and role model for younger SEED students. One of her most rewarding experiences was working behind the scenes as a make-up artist for the SEED Falcon Theater. “Make-up is one of my passions! Working with the Falcon Theater gave me a lot of practice.”

Alizey is confident that SEED’s boarding component enhanced her ability to build valuable relationships, like the bond she has built with Ms. Janice Carroll, resident advisor at SEED DC. “Ms. Carroll was my first resident advisor and has remained a constant friend and mentor to me. I have learned so much from her and have gotten the opportunity to see every aspect of a strong black woman—which I hope to become one day.”

This fall, Alizey will begin her college journey at Bentley University, majoring in business economics. “I chose to attend Bentley because it is one of the top business schools in the nation.” Though Alizey is beginning her first semester of college online, she’s excited to meet new people virtually and embark on new experiences. To ensure a smooth transition from SEED to Bentley University, Alizey was awarded the 2020 SEED Foundation Scholarship and regularly meets with her college success advisor, Ms. Gwenna Ihrie. “My college success advisor has helped me tremendously with the whole process of enrolling in college. I am a first-generation college student, so it is great to have someone guide me through this very important time in my life.”

We’re so proud of Alizey and look forward to sharing her future college success.

Read more about Alizey and meet her fellow 2020 SEED Scholarship recipients.

What We’re Learning: SEED Graduates Want to Connect—Even Virtually: Highlights from the 2020 SEED Graduate Institute

At SEED, we recognize the importance of sharing with our graduates the latest skills and techniques to be successful in today’s workforce. That’s why, for nearly 15 years, we’ve hosted the SEED Graduate Institute (SGI), an event designed to support SEED’s graduates as they take the next step in their academic and professional careers.

This year’s SGI was hosted virtually via the Whova app, a virtual event management tool, on Saturday, June 27, and Sunday, June 28. Attendees connected with their peers, attended workshops led by industry professionals, and learned the skills needed to land their dream careers. “One of the biggest challenges in organizing SGI virtually was acknowledging that this year our graduates would not be able to enjoy each other’s company in-person during a weekend getaway and would not have an opportunity to physically network with professionals,” said Brynnlee Pavlovich, College Transition & Success Program Assistant. Fortunately, the virtual aspect made it easy for graduates to reconnect, share SEED memories, and meet graduates with whom they have never interacted before. Attendees with similar career interests also exchanged contact information to connect after the event.

Some of the workshops offered included self-care, resume building, and how to ace a difficult interview. Effectively Budgeting Your Lifestyle was one of the most popular sessions, which was led by Kylie Lipinski, certified financial trainer at The Financial Gym. During this session, graduates learned how to best manage their finances during the current climate and beyond. When asked how students can reduce the amount of student loans they take out in college, Ms. Lipinski shared:

“I recommend keeping your living expenses as low as possible. Students might be able to reduce their expenses by living at home or off campus. If you have to live on campus and buy a meal plan, limit other meals out. Use work study or another part time job to cover spending money and save towards tuition if possible!”

Attendees also had the opportunity to hear from SEED’s CEO, Lesley Poole, in a conversation titled A Moment of Reflection, Connection, and Action. Ms. Poole shared her personal journey to success and encouraged attendees to remain connected to the SEED community as they navigate through this uncertain time.

One of the biggest highlights from SGI was attendee engagement! Take a look at our stats below:

Providing the space and opportunity for graduates to learn, connect, and grow personally and professionally is a victory for us. We’re thankful for our partners and volunteers that helped make this year’s event a success and look forward to continuing this tradition next year.

Our Impact: At The SEED School of Miami, Relationships are Key.

Jayden Neder, rising sophomore at SEED Miami

Do you remember what it was like to be the new kid? 

Starting a new school at a young age can be an unnerving experience. Many feel vulnerable, nervous, and worried. But for students starting at a boarding school, these feelings can be amplified. 

Jayden Neder (SEED Miami ’23) began his journey at SEED Miami as a 7th grade student—one year after most of his peers. He missed out on 6th grade New Student Orientation, designed to help incoming students build camaraderie, trust, and connections. “Initially, being at a boarding school was difficult for me. It was hard for me to get used to my new environment and to deal with being away from home.”   

The bond Jayden built with his student life counselor, Mr. Chatfield, was key to easing his transition to SEED’s five--day-a-week boarding program. “I’m so glad I had Mr. Chatfield as my student life counselor. I felt a connection right away—it is unexplainable. When I felt alone, he let me know it was going to be OK.” 

As an added layer of support, Mr. Chatfield threw Jayden a surprise party to help his classmates get to know him. “It was amazing! Everyone came rushing up to me and asking me questions like what is my name and what do I like. I made so many friends in such a short period of time.” 

One year later, Jayden’s younger brother Jordan (SEED Miami ’25) joined the SEED family and immediately connected with Mr. Derik Washington, SEED Miami’s director of student support services and a former boarding school student. “When I first came to SEED, Mr. Washington was one of the first people I met. He was really nice and helped make my experience as comfortable as possible. And he’s still there for me today—always helping me get better.” 

We know there is a critical connection between a student’s academic achievement and their need to feel safe, accepted, and valued. In fact, many of our student life counselors have a background in social work or mental health counseling. SEED Miami also has four, full-time, licensed health counselors—more than a traditional school—who help guide SEED scholars in their personal, social, and academic development.

SEED’s unique public boarding school model enables us to put relationships first. Together, we build the relationships and emotional supports that Jayden, Jordan, and their classmates need to reach their academic and career goals.

For more information on SEED Miami’s Student Support Services, click here.

Where Are They Now? Giselle Rodriguez’s (SEED DC ’13, Hampton University ’17) Unique Journey with SEED Tells the Story of Perseverance and Success

Every year, thousands of students face barriers to college access and success. These barriers can keep students from exploring their interests, expanding their social experiences, and building a promising career. That’s why, the minute our students arrive on campus, they are immersed in our holistic programming tailored to assist them with reaching their goals for college completion.

Giselle Rodriguez (SEED DC ’13) knew she wanted to be a college graduate—so much so that she traveled nearly 400 miles every week between New York City and The SEED School of Washington, D.C. “Much of my immediate family lives in New York City, so I would catch the bus every Friday after school to go to New York and then be back in DC on Sunday.”

The constant traveling was not ideal, but as Giselle became enthralled in SEED’s college academic programming, she began to appreciate the unique boarding school experience. “I’ve personally witnessed President Barack Obama sign the national service bill in our gym. I’ve snowboarded, modeled, played varsity basketball, and developed life-long mentors that have pushed me to my fullest potential and have become family.”

Giselle recently spoke with us about her journey at SEED and how she’s managing during the pandemic. Read more below.

What college or university did you attend?

I graduated from Hampton University in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology.

How was your transition from SEED to college? 

My transition to college was smooth. Because of SEED, I had the opportunity to live in dormitories at a young age, I received a college prep education, and I had the college advising support I needed to succeed.

Based on the recommendation from my SEED advisor, Ms. Blacknall, I decided to enroll at Hampton University. I am really glad I attended a historically black college and university (HBCU). I enjoyed the wealth of culture and I met a lot of incredible people.

Did you stay connected to SEED while in college?

It’s important to me that I give back to the SEED community. SEED played a big role in my life and I am always eager for ways to be involved and support the SEED mission.

While at Hampton, I started serving as a graduate ambassador. In this role, I assist at SEED events, help to enhance the SEED brand, and serve as a role model to current SEED students. I also spoke at the 2017 SEED Summit—a professional conference for SEED staff—and on panels designed to help upcoming SEED graduates have a better understanding of the college process.

What are you doing now that you have graduated from college?

After I graduated from Hampton, I accepted a job with Jetblack a high-end personal shopping service. While at Jetblack, I held three different positions—procurement specialist, buyer, and member concierge. Unfortunately, one month before the national health crisis, Jetblack discontinued its services and all employees were laid off.

Despite this setback, I am excited to share that I recently accepted a position as a processing expert at a mortgage lending company and I am currently training for my new role. I am also taking advantage of my extra time and have been taking online courses to strengthen my skills. I’ve learned more about Google analytics, direct-to-consumer brands, and operations analytics. I’m committed to staying focused and productive and am using this time to determine the next best step for my future.

It’s Graduation Season! Reflect and Celebrate the SEED Class of 2020 and SEED’s Recent College Graduates with Us

Every year, SEED students continue to defy the odds, reach their goals, and chart their own paths towards earning college degrees and establishing fulfilling careers. This May, to celebrate our scholars’ successes, we shared the stories of SEED high school seniors and recognized their achievements with a virtual graduation. We also highlighted our college graduates who are taking the next big step - starting a professional career. 

We kicked off graduation season with SEED College Graduate Spotlights, to highlight seven exceptional SEED alumni who recently graduated from college. Among these graduates is La’Dearia Poulson (SEED DC ’15). She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from North Carolina Central University and is looking forward to beginning her career as a kindergarten teacher this fall. Her long-term goal is to become a school social worker. 

We also celebrated more than 50 high school seniors from The SEED School of Washington, DC and The SEED School of Maryland at their virtual graduations on Saturday, June 13. We heard from Mikyle Gregory (SEED MD ’20), class valedictorian. He spoke about persisting through adversity to reach his goals. “Even though a global pandemic happened during my senior year of high school, I remained focused on my education and I encouraged my peers to do the same.'‘ Dakota Blakney (SEED DC ’20), class salutatorian, shared some of her most memorable moments at SEED. “One of my favorite memories at SEED was attending our 9th grade retreat. We traveled to the Princeton-Blairstown Center in New Jersey for a week of adventure-based learning and team building.”

View our virtual graduations at SEED DC and SEED MD. 

Our students’ journeys are not finished on high school graduation day, which is why our work does not end there either. From senior year through their college graduation, every SEED student has a staff member dedicated to their success. One of the ways we help our students reach their educational goals is through scholarships. Thanks to the generosity of our community, this year alone we have awarded over $200,000 in merit and need-based scholarships. 

Because of their hard work and the support of our wonderful community, our scholars are headed to colleges and universities across the country including, Sewanee: The University of the South, Rochester Institute of Technology, and Howard University. And our recent college graduates are taking the leap into the workforce. We couldn’t be prouder of their accomplishments! 

Follow The SEED Network on social media to see how we celebrated our scholars—and join us in ensuring that every student can achieve his/her college dreams!

SEED’s College Transition & Success Team

The SEED Foundation

The SEED School of Washington, DC

The SEED School of Maryland

The SEED School of Miami

Where Are They Now? Ralph Mehitang (SEED MD ’16, Salisbury University ’20) Credits SEED for Building His Drive for Success

Landing a job—even for the most experienced worker—is tough right now. But for recent college graduates looking to launch a new career, it is even more overwhelming. In fact, according to Federal Reserve Economic Data, the unemployment rate for college graduates aged 20-24 is nearly 17.2%!

Despite these troubling numbers, some graduates are beating the odds. We recently spoke with Ralph Mehitang, a graduate of Salisbury University. After a successful internship with Trinity Logistics, Ralph was offered a full-time position and has already begun his career. “I’m so thankful to already have a job. Working for Trinity Logistics as a technology developer is the best first step for me.”

Read more about Ralph and how SEED helped him to discover his goals.

What college or university did you attend? 

I attended Salisbury University. This spring, I received my bachelor’s degree in computer science and information systems. 

How was your transition from SEED to college? 

Initially, I didn’t commit to going to Salisbury. I was planning to go to a school in Pennsylvania. But after I sat down and saw how much I would owe after financial aid and scholarships, I realized that Salisbury was the better option for me. I worked with my College Transition and Success advisor, Mr. Frasier, and he helped me get registered at Salisbury. This decision made a big difference for me financially—all my college expenses were covered.  

Once I got settled at Salisbury, my transition to college was smooth. Because I went to SEED, I was accustomed to being away from home. I did have to work a bit on balancing a heavier course load with my social life, but I quickly got used to my new schedule. 

Did you stay connected to SEED while in college? 

When I was at Salisbury, I helped with a few SEED events. My sophomore year, I served as host for the SEED Summit—a two-day professional conference for SEED staff. I also served as co-host for SEED Maryland’s Senior Dinner and as the DJ for our students’ move-in day. 

My freshman and sophomore year, I also attended the Student Graduate Institute to get help with building my resume and developing other professional skills. 

Are you planning to further your education?

After I’ve gotten a bit of work experience, I would like to go back to school to get a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Computer Science. 

How did your experience at SEED impact you?

SEED definitely helped me build my drive for success. They constantly exposed us to successful people of color—that looked like me—it made me want to achieve also. I remember traveling to New York City with SEED to meet with Kevin Liles. He was serving as the keynote speaker for a SEED event, and I was the host. This was my first experience being in New York, and at that moment, I told myself that I would live in a big city one day. I’m happy to share that I realized my goal—I’m moving to Chicago in a few weeks! I’m certainly a bit nervous, but I’m also looking forward to this next step in my life; it’ll be an exciting journey.  

Meet Our Students: Autumn Lewis (SEED MD ‘20) Sees a Bright Future Ahead with The SEED Foundation Scholarship

Congratulations are in order to the class of 2020 at The SEED School of Maryland! Among our graduating seniors is a phenomenal SEED scholar named Autumn Lewis (SEED MD ’20).  Autumn has been selected as a 2020 SEED Foundation Scholarship recipient because of her leadership skills and commitment to academic excellence.

Following in her older brother’s footsteps, Autumn came to SEED as a sixth-grade scholar, looking for a change of environment and a promising opportunity for a bright future. While at SEED, Autumn was a member of the Student Government Association (SGA) and the Glee Club. She also served as a prefect, where she helped younger students transition to a boarding school and master SEED’s rigorous high school curriculum. 

“My favorite activity was being a prefect because I had the opportunity to work with SEED middle school students and help them understand what they should expect in college-prep boarding high school: it taught me how to be responsible.”

One of Autumn’s biggest highlights at SEED was learning that she had been named a 2020 SEED Foundation Scholarship recipient. “To hear that I was receiving the 2020 SEED Foundation Scholarship was a special moment because I never thought I’d be awarded something so amazing. I’m extremely thankful for this scholarship and feel blessed to have attended SEED. I was educated by some of the most admirable and impactful staff members ever. I’m going to miss SEED.”

Now a SEED graduate, Autumn is looking forward to starting her journey at Goucher College this fall, where she will major in journalism and minor in theatre arts. “What excites me most about going to college is building new relationships and embarking on new experiences.” 

Stay tuned for updates on Autumn’s journey at Goucher College.

Our Impact: As FAFSA Completion Rates Decline Nationally, SEED Students Remain on Track

Over the last couple months, reports have shown a steady decline in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) completion rates for students growing up in low-income communities. With applications down, thousands of students—who are in most need of financial support to access higher levels of education—could miss out on federal student aid. 

At SEED, we know that even small amounts of money can make the difference between students staying in school or leaving early. That’s why we have put the following practices in place to make certain our students don’t miss out on critical funding: 

• An internal deadline that is far earlier than the standard FAFSA deadline; 

• Programming for students and families that focuses on financial literacy, understanding the college funding process, and why the FAFSA is key;

• A staffing structure which includes college success advisors who provide financial aid coaching support to students to and through college; and

• A college success model that supports community and school-based organizations in growing their capacity to execute stronger financial counseling and college matching practices.

These practices have proven especially helpful as our students, teachers and leaders navigate virtual platforms and adapt to the changing financial aid and application deadlines due to COVID-19. Finally, we are working hard to ensure that even as our students and families are impacted by the global pandemic and recession, we are there to help them address financial burdens standing between them and a college degree. 

Check out the FAFSA Tracker to explore data on nationwide FAFSA renewals. 

Meet Our Students: SEED MD Middle Schoolers Leahnata and TJ Tejan Are Looking Forward to Their Future with SEED

Leahnata Tejan and Hadirudeen “TJ” Tejan, middle school students at SEED MD.

“SEED MD has provided me with a good educational foundation. We are always reminded that going to college is the ultimate goal. This keeps me motivated to succeed. - Leahnata Tejan" 

At SEED, we believe in the importance of collaborating with families to support the success of our students. This partnership has led to younger siblings following their older sisters and brothers to SEED, earning their college degrees, and going on to have fulfilling careers. We recently had the pleasure of speaking with siblings Leahnata Tejan (SEED MD ’24) and Hadirudeen “TJ” Tejan (SEED MD ’26), who attend The SEED School of Maryland (SEED MD).  

Leahnata is thirteen years old and always puts her academics first. “I love all of my classes, but if I had to pick a favorite, it would be math because of my teacher, Mr. Dorsey. He’s great!”  

Outside of the classroom, she is an active member of the African Dance and Drumming Club. Through this club, Leahnata is practicing how to deliver high-quality performances and learning about the significance of different cultural dances with African roots. “I love participating in African Dance and Drumming activities because I get to learn more about my culture.” She also had the opportunity to travel from Baltimore, Maryland to Miami, Florida to teach and perform for her peers at The SEED School of Miami (SEED Miami). “Going to SEED Miami was so fun! We got the opportunity to teach the students different rhythms and dances, and we even performed at their talent show.” 

TJ is eleven years old and began his journey with SEED this school year. With the support of his sister and student life counselor, he has adjusted very well to SEED’s boarding program. “SEED is a great place to learn. I know my sister is going to high school next year, so I won’t see her as much. But I find comfort in knowing that she is still here.”

Like Leahnata, TJ always pushes himself academically. His favorite class is English Language Arts. “Ms. Dougherty is a great teacher! I always look forward to her class because she’s very interactive with us.” He is also a member of the flag football team and has dreams of playing professional football one day. “Playing in the NFL would be great, but I know I need a backup plan. After graduating from SEED, I would also like to get my degree in nursing or become a doctor.” 

We’re so excited to follow Leahnata’s and TJ’s journeys with SEED. Stay tuned for more updates. 

Volunteer Spotlight: Jay Carmel – Scholarship Committee Volunteer

Far right, Jay Carmel, SEED Foundation Scholarship Committee volunteer

Earlier this month, we kicked off our annual SEED Foundation Scholarship Campaign. Since 2010, The SEED Foundation has awarded more than $700,000 in scholarships to help SEED graduates close the gap between financial aid and the total cost of college attendance. The success of our scholarship program can be attributed to the dedication of our volunteers, donors, and families.  

We recently had the opportunity to speak with Jay Carmel, a volunteer who has been serving on The SEED Foundation Scholarship Committee for seven years. After being introduced to SEED by a board member and a former staff member, Jay was hooked, and he has remained committed to helping SEED students reach their educational goals. Find out more about Jay and why he continues to support SEED.  

How did you begin your volunteer service at SEED?  

I began volunteering at The SEED School of Washington, D.C., as a tutor. I would tutor several students for an hour to an hour and a half each week. When my job changed and I could not devote the same amount of time, I sought other ways to stay involved. I learned about The SEED Foundation Scholarship and decided to join the committee.  As a committee member, I review the applications of rising SEED seniors and help determine our scholarship recipients with four other committee members. 

What do you like about being a volunteer on The SEED Foundation Scholarship Committee?  

It’s cool to see SEED students make the most of this opportunity. I get to read their essays and to learn about their ambitions and hopes for the future. After reviewing their applications, the committee interviews every applicant for about 20 minutes. This helps me put a face to each student’s application. The interview days are long, but always fun and rewarding.  

Why do you continue volunteering with SEED? 

Growing up, I was taught the value of education. I recognize how fortunate I am because I was able to get a good education. Because of this, I want to be supportive to other kids in my community. I enjoy playing a role in helping SEED students launch their college career.  

Do you have a favorite SEED moment or memory?  

Just being a member of the scholarship committee has been amazing. I get the opportunity to meet a new group of students each year and to hear their ideas, desires, and passions. I love knowing that each day we show up for interviews, it will be a different experience—one student may read a poem, and another may speak very passionately about their goals. The students really want to show who they are, what makes them excited, and what they hope for the future.  

Anything to add?  

Everyone knows how teachers play an important role in our society. As a volunteer at SEED, I have the opportunity to see this firsthand. There is an incredible amount of work, effort, and commitment that goes into making sure this program succeeds. It is so great to see the number of students that go to college and graduate and to know that the SEED scholarship is helping make this possible. I know the hard work is paying off—SEED is really helping to guide and support each student’s path. 

What We’re Learning: What Does Taking a Gap Year Mean for Students Nationwide?

High school graduation is an exciting time for students and their families. Walking across the stage and collecting your diploma in front of those who have watched you grow into a young adult is truly a rite of passage for all scholars. For millions of students nationwide, this moment also signifies the next step in their educational journeys—college.  

Unfortunately, given the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, many high school graduates will not have the opportunity to walk across that stage in person. They have also been reevaluating their decisions to start college this fall. The ever-popular gap year, which is seen as a way to explore your interests, recharge your battery, and gain focus before entering college, has piqued the interest of many future college students. In fact, Google searches for “What is a gap year?” increased by 180% the last week of April.  

Despite the increase in interest, taking a gap year in 2020 presents many limitations, as non-essential travel has come to a halt, and jobs are limited. This option poses additional concerns for low-income students who cannot afford to go a year without work or school and are afraid they will lose scholarship and grant funding if they don’t enroll in college immediately.  

We recently spoke with Mikyle Gregory, a senior at The SEED School of Maryland (SEED MD) and a recipient of the 2020 SEED Foundation Scholarship, to see how he felt about the possibility of taking a gap year. Here’s what he had to say about how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted his college plans:  

Where are you attending college this fall? 

I am attending Rochester Institute of Technology this fall, majoring in computer science and engineering. They have a robust computer engineering program, which really attracted me to the school.  

Have you considered taking a gap year due to the COVD-19 pandemic?  

I haven’t considered taking a gap year. I know that the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted everyone’s life. But with SEED I feel supported, and I’m excited to enroll in college and pursue my dreams.  

How has SEED helped you stay on track to enroll in college this fall?  

My college success team has made sure that I know all my options. We’ve created a checklist of things to do before move-in day that helps me stay on track! 

Meet Mikyle and 14 other SEED graduates who are eager to begin their college journeys this fall. 

Our Impact: SEED DC Spanish Teacher Uses Social Media to Boost Her Virtual Classes

As we settle into a new norm, our teachers are determining the best ways to keep our students engaged virtually. Spanish teacher and track coach Rosalyn D. Lake-Montero is using social media and other platforms to teach virtually.  

Using Instagram, Google Classroom, Duolingo, and FaceTime, Ms. Lake-Montero has created multiple ways to connect with her students. “When I started working at SEED, many of my students wanted to connect with me on social media. I then created the @senorita_lake page on Instagram to post class pictures and funny videos in Spanish. I now use this page as a tool to teach and connect with them virtually.”  

Ms. Lake-Montero has also woven social and emotional programming into her virtual lesson plans and discusses the importance of wellness, self-care, and creating healthy habits. She challenges her students to utilize their Spanish vocabulary to document their new routines and the healthy habits they have adopted while social distancing.

Beyond academics, Ms. Lake-Montero is finding time to continue coaching The SEED School of Washington, D.C.’s, cross-country team. She encourages her scholars to stay fit and teaches how being active will benefit their bodies and minds. “With my amazing runners, I send them motivational videos regularly and speak to them one on one. Though they are scholar-athletes, I always remind them that their academics come first. Once exams are finished, we are definitely getting ready for the track & field season via FaceTime. I’m always looking forward to it.”  

At SEED, we are committed to hiring exceptional adults like Ms. Lake-Montero. Her commitment and determination to adapt is key to our students’ success. For more highlights of SEED DC’s virtual work with our students, click here.