Summer Bridge Program at Watkins Mill Aims to Help Students Succeed

Realizing that the graduation rates at Watkins Mill High School was lower compared to others in Montgomery County Public schools system is why a summer bridge program was launched in 2015 to help students succeed.

Thanks to a grant from the Trawick Foundation, the Youth Summit Project prepares 90 incoming freshmen with the transition from middle school to high school.

“We found that students were having trouble their first year because they were disenfranchised and the rules are different compared to middle school,” said Lola Rodgers, director for the Youth Summit Project. “For example, if you don’t pass in middle school, you have a chance to advance forward with your class, but that’s not the case in high school.”

The week-long program challenges students by incorporating physical activities, such as rock-climbing, and whitewater rafting; community service projects, and a ropes challenge course.

“The goal is to teach students that while things can be difficult, there are resources there to help and guide you,” said Rodgers.

Those resources will include Watkins Mill High School staff and peer leaders.  The peer leaders are a group of upper classmen who are successful in their studies and extra curricular activities.

“We want students to know that high school is about doing it,” said Rodgers.  “It doesn’t just happen to you. You have to partake in it.”

Rodgers said there are a few spots open for incoming Watkins Mill High School students. Parents and teens interested should call the school and fill out the forms.

The program begins July 16 and is free of charge for participants. Students selected will receive breakfast and lunch during the week-long summer program, along with a backpack full of school supplies.

The @WatkinsMillHS Youth Summit Program still has spots for any incoming 9th grader to participate in this summer’s program! Call the school at 301-284-4400 or DM for info. There are 3 one week sessions starting on 7/16. Five free days of fun and learning to get ready for WMHS!!

— WMHS Youth Summit (@WMYouthSummit) July 5, 2018

About Mitti Hicks

Mitti Hicks is a multimedia journalist and community engagement specialist with Montgomery Community Media. She is passionate about telling stories that impact our community and may be reached at MHicks@mymcmedia.org and on Twitter @mittimegan.

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