Tom Mayer became an individual supporter of Higher Achievement’s Baltimore affiliate over five years ago. He was initially drawn to the program when he attended a Love Out Loud event and heard the scholars perform their own poems. He stayed involved because he believes the program is effective and more middle school students should have the chance to participate.
“What really caught my attention was the Love Out Loud event. What could you not love about middle school students reciting their own love poetry? That event was profound to me. I thought the room should have been full. Those students deserved the witness of the entire community,” said Mr. Mayer.
He agrees with Higher Achievement that middle school is a critical time and the “best last opportunity to help talented kids realize their potential.” Mr. Mayer also appreciates Higher Achievement’s emphasis on academic rigor and the dedication of the scholars to program.
“What exemplifies the importance to me is that it takes a certain amount of courage to be a Higher Achievement scholar and take full advantage of all the opportunities. The scholars spend so much extra time in the program, and they should be honored and respected for that effort,” he said. “If there is any doubt of the value of Higher Achievement, go to the Love Out Loud event. All you have to do is hear directly from those kids.”