7th grade scholar Samir challenges himself in and out of school – a trait encouraged at Higher Achievement. “Something I’ve learned at Higher Achievement is to push forward no matter what. If something is easy, you should do something harder to challenge yourself,” says Samir. “I hate writing. When I was working on homework at Higher Achievement one night it was something easy, so [Learning Director] Ms. Mena gave me harder work to push me to love writing.”
Though his journey hasn’t always been smooth, Samir has shown remarkable growth. “At school, I wouldn’t say I was bad, but I had behavior problems. Higher Achievement helped me work on my integrity. It helped me to be a better person overall and push through my obstacles,” says Samir. He’s proud of showing up for himself and for the effort he’s put into self-improvement. That commitment isn’t going unnoticed; Samir recently received his school’s Integrity Award.
At Higher Achievement, mentors and staff consistently encourage scholars to venture beyond their comfort zones and explore new experiences. Samir values the diverse opportunities he’s encountered through the program, including field trips and electives in cooking and art. “It takes a lot of my day, but it’s worth it.” says Samir. “Higher Achievement encourages you and helps you push your hardest. It shows you so many opportunities. It makes me wonder: ‘What else can I do in life?’”
As he looks toward the future, Samir benefits from the guidance of his Learning Director, Ms. Mena, and supportive mentors throughout his middle school journey. “I have the best mentor!” declares Samir. “Our mentors are always encouraging us. They talk to me about high schools near us and things you can major in in college. I want to go to the best college out there!” Samir is currently considering majoring in photography while continuing to pursue his passion for basketball.
“When I become famous, I know Higher Achievement helped me become who I am,” affirms Samir. As scholars like Samir prepare to make their mark on the world, Higher Achievement stands proudly alongside them, fostering confidence in their abilities and bright futures.
This spring, Samir and his peers participated in a poetry elective. For Samir, the experience culminated in performing his poem onstage at Higher Achievement’s Green Apples graduation ceremony. His words were stirring and powerful:
I was eight, just a kid in D.C.,
When life flipped upside down on me.
First my mom—she meant the most,
Then Grandpa too, like I lost a ghost.
Two brothers, two sisters—we held on tight,
Trying to be brave, crying at night.
It hurt so bad, but love stayed near,
We kept each other close, year after year.
Then my aunt came, strong and kind,
She gave me peace and helped my mind.
She’s not just family—she’s my guide,
She stood by me, right by my side.
Now I’m thirteen, the pain’s still there,
But I’ve got dreams, and people who care.
Higher Achievement is helping me grow,
They teach me things I didn’t know.
I dream of Gonzaga, that school up high,
So I study hard and reach for the sky.
Books in my bag, ball in my hand,
Learning and growing, taking a stand.
I’m just getting started—my journey’s new,
But I believe in what I can do.
For my mom, my grandpa, and my whole crew,
I’ll chase my dreams and see them through.
From D.C. streets to a court so wide,
I move with hope, with strength, with pride.
I’ve been through a lot—but I still live,
And I’ve got so much more to give.