Good morning Senator Specter and Members of the Subcommittee on After-School Programs. My name is Steven Kinlock. I am a senior at the Preparatory Charter High School of Mathematics, Science, Technology, and Careers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. My school has been the proud recipient of a 21st Century Community Learning Centers grant. Twenty-first Century grant funds have allowed me numerous opportunities that I never could have experienced at any other school. As a senior, I attended the Community College of Philadelphia and took four college credit courses. This proved to be an invaluable experience for me for I feel that I am far better equipped to make the transition from high school to college.
During my four years at Prep Charter, our 21st Century program allowed me to receive S.A.T. preparation, and even paid my fees for taking the test. I cannot begin to measure the value of the after-school tutoring and mentoring programs I have enjoyed for these past four years.
As of this date, I have been accepted to ten colleges and universities, including the Fashion Institute of Technology, Morgan State University, Virginia State University, Widener University, Virginia Union State University, Voorhees University, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Paine University, California University of Pennsylvania, and Penn State University.
Years ago, I would never have dreamed that I would actually have the dilemma of choosing WHICH college to attend. I truly believe that I could not have achieved this level in my high school academic career were it not for the after-school support and nurturing environment provided to me by the 21st Century program sponsored by FOUNDATIONS, Inc. and Prep Charter High.
My grades and test scores saw a steady increase. I received assistance with my homework and worked on academic content crucial to my day-school success. High standards remained the same but the after-school, hands-on approach was a great style for enhancing my learning experiences.
These after-school programs have provided many of my friends and me with meaningful academic and cultural activities, have kept us off the streets, and have given us a positive direction in life. Through the support of these programs, we have come to believe that WE CAN DO IT!!! WE CAN SUCCEED!!
On behalf of all Prep Charter students and all of the children who participate in 21st Century Learning Programs, I thank you and ask for your continued support and funding. This IS a program that makes a difference.
