Hard work leads to success

Southern Tier Traveling Teachers

Justin (named changed for privacy) was referred to Southern Tier Traveling Teacher’s in-home tutoring program in May 2013. He had some difficulties in his life and had spent 1½ years at a facility for at-risk youth. When he returned to his local school, he didn’t keep up with his studies and dropped out in the spring of 2013. Through the encouragement of his mother, he became involved with the Traveling Teacher program.

Justin’s tutor started working with him in August 2013. For a short while, he did not keep some of his meetings and he did not appear motivated. But that soon changed and Justin became focused and determined to obtain his diploma. He worked hard to bring up his skill levels, especially in math. He met with his tutor for 11 months before he was ready to take the TASC exam, New York State’s new High School Equivalency test.

Justin did very well on the exam and obtained his NYS High School Equivalency Diploma in September 2014. He and his family were very proud of his achievement.

His tutor helped him write a resume and Justin obtained seasonal employment. He also passed the road test and obtained his driver’s license. He will be attending Alfred State College in the fall of 2015 so that he can further his education.

Thanks to the support of the Allegany County United Way, Traveling Teacher was able to help Justin obtain his diploma and prepare for life ahead.