At-risk youth are young people under 18 facing significant barriers to success due to factors like poverty, limited resources, and unstable home environments. These challenges often manifest in academic struggles, leading to higher dropout rates and limited opportunities.
According to the American Community Survey, over 10 million U.S. children live in poverty, placing them at heightened risk of educational and life setbacks. Research indicates that children from low-income families frequently enter school with developmental disadvantages such as limited language skills and reduced parental support. Moreover, students residing in impoverished communities are four times more likely to experience chronic absenteeism, a major predictor of high school dropout.
These factors underscore the critical role of education in breaking the cycle of poverty. By addressing the unique needs of at-risk youth, schools can provide a pathway to a brighter future.
The Winston-Salem Street School (WSSS) is a private alternative high school dedicated to serving at-risk youth in the Greater Winston-Salem area. The school provides a supportive learning environment for students who have faced academic or behavioral challenges in traditional schools, including those who have been expelled or dropped out. By offering a path to a state-recognized diploma, the WSSS empowers these young people to overcome obstacles and achieve their educational goals.
The WSSS offers an intensive, nurturing learning environment where students can thrive.They focus on small class sizes of ten students per teacher which enables them to provide personalized attention and support. Graduates of the WSSS are well-prepared to pursue higher education,military service, or enter the workforce.
Why I chose to work with them.
The project was brought to me by Tracy Miser, from Misner Media. An amazing content creator and mentor to young up and coming content creators. I was thrilled to be a part of a project that focuses on elevating those who are often left behind. As I scrolled through the site in preparation, I was struck by the incredible stories of hope and perseverance shared by those who graduated and currently attend WSSC.
The opportunity to gain an education is a right that everyone should have. No child should be left to fall through the cracks because of social, financial,or other circumstances. Thankfully, WSSC is dedicated to doing their part to improve the lives of at risk youth in the Winston-Salem area
Here’s the final project created for WSSC.
Please check out the Winston-Salem Street School at https://www.wsstreetschool.org/ and Miser Media at https://www.misnermedia.com/
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