CIS Palm Beach County News

A Collection Of Memoirs Highlights Riviera Beach Prep Students

SOURCE Communities In Schools Palm Beach County July 2012

Communities In Schools had the pleasure of serving Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s first graduating class, the Class of 2012, this year. And in recognition of this great accomplishment, students were challenged to first sum up their high school experience or journey to graduation in a Six Word Memoir. This was, perhaps, the hardest part. They were then asked to expand their six word memoirs into 300-500 word pieces. They were dared to be colorful and honest. And they rose to the challenge. The CIS classroom became a professional writers’ workshop the last weeks of school for these graduates; while some cried, others laughed, and all were supportive of each other’s memories.

The culmination of their efforts is A Collection of Memoirs, which served as the students’ yearbook. Riviera Beach Prep does everything within and, at times, beyond its means to give its students an authentic high school experience in the alternative school setting, and CIS was so happy to help. The Collection is complete with advice from the administrative staff, thank you’s to those who made the project possible (especially the group of professional photographers who spent two days with the graduates, taking their cap and gown pictures as well as their personality pictures), and most importantly, the students’ voices—their stories, their truths.

The Collection has been edited for the Internet to include only those students who signed a photo release. A complete collection is available in the front offices of both Riviera Beach Prep and Communities In Schools.

www.cispbc.org Page | 1 Remembered and Written By: Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Graduating Class of 2012 Hard work plus perseverance equals success.

Congratulations to Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s first graduating class, the Class of 2012. With a new school and a new attitude, you came in and got down to business. I’m P proud to say that you are now part of this school’s bright and successful history. Not only did you R excel academically, but you excelled professionally by taking advantage of our new career programs: Several of you will be the chefs, mechanics, hair stylists, and computer techs serving this community. I N High school graduation is a major milestone in life! This single event will launch you to the next level; your potential has no boundaries, and your graduation serves as a catalyst for accelerating greater C achievements at the college level, in the work place, and beyond. It has truly been my pleasure to I play a role in helping you achieve this milestone; my entire staff and I are extremely proud that you have met, and in most cases, exceeded Florida’s graduation criteria. To the Class of 2012 — you and P your parents can be very proud of your accomplishments. A

Many of you enrolled in Riviera Beach Prep at the beginning of this school year with high hopes and L dreams that you would be completing your high school diploma and moving on to the college level or entering the workforce. Well, as a direct result of your hard work and perseverance, your dreams have become a reality. Absolutely no one can take this accomplishment away from you because P your future can now be built on a very solid academic foundation. O By completing 24 credits, volunteering in your communities for 20 or more hours, mastering the L Florida Comprehensive Achievement Test (FCAT), the College Test (ACT) and/or Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), you have clearly demonstrated that you have acquired the tools necessary for continued L success at the next level. And these were just the minimum requirements. Many of you have A accumulated hundreds of community service hours. Some have achieved ACT/SAT scores that make you eligible for Florida’s Bright Future Scholarships. Some have achieved these goals while working R and earning salaries to help support your families; others have reached these milestones while at- D’ tending school as a single parent and raising your young children. All of you are graduating with a high school diploma despite very challenging environments and against all odds. S

But most importantly, each and every one of you has learned the values of hard work. It has been both an honor and privilege to serve as your principal. You have earned my highest vote of M confidence, and I truly believe that you will continue to succeed in all of your future endeavors. Congratulations for a job well done! E S Sincerely, S William J. Pollard A Principal G E Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Striving for excellence

produces bright futures.

Congratulations Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy Class of 2012 A

As you prepare to transition into the next stage in your life, take a moment and reflect on the S challenges and triumphs you have experienced. These various experiences will allow you to S persevere when you are faced with adversity in the future. t. This year has proven to be one of my most meaningful years as an educator. As an administrator, I provided the necessary consequences and corrections, coupled with some life lessons, which will benefit each of you as you move forward. I have ascertained many valuable P lessons from every student at Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy. Fortunately, R these assets has allowed me to take a second look at how I view life. On several occasions, each of you have revealed your life stories, some in my office, some at lunch, and often, some while I simply passing in the hall. Wherever it was, your candor made an impact on my life. N

This will be one of the most memorable times of your life, so please revel in this very moment. C Always remember you can accomplish anything in life by planning and taking it one step at a I time. I would like you to remember, P “Education is a companion which no misfortune can decrease, no crimes destroy, no enemy A alienate, no dictatorship can enslave. Education may cost financial sacrifice and mental pain, but in both money and life values, it will repay every cost one hundred fold.” L’ s Congratulations Graduates!

Sincerely, M

Mrs. Elaine Hubbard– Williams E Assistant Principal S S A G E

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Work like you own

the company.

Congratulations Riviera Beach Preparatory and Achievement Academy Class of 2012 Graduates –

You made it! A The Class of 2012 has been a truly extraordinary class in all endeavors. It is with a tremendous S amount of pride and enjoyment that I wish each member of the Class of 2012 congratulations. As members of our school community for the past 13 years, this is an opportunity to reflect on S your accomplishments and to prepare for future opportunities that lie ahead. t.

Revel in this moment and take the time to thank all who have been instrumental in helping you achieve this milestone. It goes without saying: Don't forget your parents and loved ones when P you are passing along words of appreciation to all who have been influential in your R accomplishments. I I would like to impart some food for thought by Harriet Tubman: “Every great dream begins N with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world.” So, Class of 2012, be a dreamer. Change the C world. I

Congratulations to the first graduating class of Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement P Academy! I hope that each of you continue to grow and reach for excellence. A

Sincerely, L’ s Mr. Mark Simmonds Assistant Principal M E S S A G E

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs

18 May 2012

To the photographers: Art Cabell, Mark Haworth, Steve Berger, Stephanie Toolsie, Jim Kosinski, and Jack Holcomb

Thank you for giving willingly and generously of your most precious possession — your time. Without each of you, this project would have been just a good idea. And in saying thank you, it seems only fitting, given the content within this book, that I dabble around with a few six word memoirs of my own — not to describe my high school journey, but to share my experience in putting this collection of memoirs together.

Six Word Memoirs on the RBP Class of 2012 Photo Shoots Safety pins hurt fingers. Laughter ensues. Four photographers + 13 graduates + one Tassel broke. Pollard returned, saved day. park = Paparazzi The professionals make the tears flow. (so it’s seven words! Sue me!) Graduates all smiles—even the boys. Without generous photographers, it’s a wrap. I could honestly think in six words for hours upon hours, but that is not the purpose of this; not to mention, that last one pretty much sums it up. The purpose—Art, Mark, Steve, Stephanie, and Jim—is to say thank you. Each of you went above and beyond what I would even dare ask, and because of you, because of your love for your craft and your heart for young people, you have been the exclamation point on a high school career that, for so many, seemed literally endless. I am so thankful for each of you, and I am especially thankful for Jack who gathered you all together for this project. Jack’s diligence and care never ceases to amaze me, and what a treat, meeting his friends who share the exact same traits. You came from far and near. You gave your time and shared your expertise. You were patient and spoke the language of special situations: Laughter. On behalf of the students, the staff, and the administration of Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy as well as the staff of Communities In Schools of Palm Beach County, I want to say thank you. Thank you for everything.

Sincerely,

Samantha Ragland Student Achievement Specialist

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Thank you teachers and staff.

Mrs. Toshimi Abe-Janiga Ms. Sabrina Davis Mr. Christian Moise Mr. Robert Agostino Mrs. Jane Diller Ms. Shelinita Mucklin Mr. Ronald Baker Mr. Rupert Edwards Ms. Antionette Pietro Ms. Sharon Baker Ms. Wanda Cabell Ms. Princess Pugh Mr. Matthew Cedeno Mr. Joey Joseph Ms. Denise Smith Mrs. Joyce Cantrell Mr. Matthew Kaley Mrs. Malvina Waldron Dr. Gertrude Chateau Mr. Brian Knowles Dr. Mark Zilberberg Mr. Thomas Coates Ms. Jewell McKay Mr. Larry Wasilewski

18 May 2012

To the Teachers and Staff:

Where to begin? I believe your sacrifice is a good place. I thank you for your sacrifice. Time after time this school year, and every school year prior and I’m sure every school year to come, you sacrificed for these graduates. You gave of your free time. You lent out belts and shirts to keep students in dress code. You moved deadlines back and back, and back. You laughed with the students, pressed the students, checked the students — I believe some folk call this tough love. Our students graduating in the Class of 2012 are doing so because, at one time or another or several times repeatedly, you tough loved on them. And because of this action which translates into preparation, we are here today to witness the best result: Their graduation. We’re a diverse bunch, just like our graduates, and thankfully so; for each of us is just different enough to speak whatever language — of love, trust, humor — each graduating senior has needed in order to make it this far. I would also like to give a special thank you to Mr. Agostino and Mrs. Waldron for their patience and understanding. Putting this memoir project together wasn’t easy, but it was certainly less difficult because of both of you. Thank you for working around the sometimes chaotic schedule that made this project possible. Thank you for working on a cloudy Saturday morning. Thank you for your investment of time, strength, and empathy. Thank you for being here and for being part of this team. Without this faculty and staff, Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy couldn’t be what it is, and from my heart and on behalf of Communities In Schools of Palm Beach County, I want to thank you.

Sincerely,

Samantha Ragland Student Achievement Specialist

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs I lived, I grew, I learned!

Born in West Palm Beach, really I lived and was raised in various parts of the county. In my 19 years, I’ve experienced a lot of new situations and lifestyle choices because of my moving R around so much. I attended three elementary schools, three middle schools, and four high schools. Through the years of being in so many places, I had to mold myself carefully. Different A peers and people in my life every year or every couple of months made life kind of hectic. S Walking into high school, I felt no different than middle school. The same rules applied, and I was treated no different by staff. I thought high school would be my best years of school, but h really they were boring and to the point. I actually hated school. It seemed like each year there h were more and more obstacles in the way of me graduating. Now, I was not ever picked on; in fact, I fit in well. I just did not feel as smart as the rest of the kids. w

Eventually, it came to a point where I was just not interested in school anymore. I dropped out at A the end of my 11th grade year, but my credits rolled over and I transitioned into a senior. During that three month period of summer break, I realized something. I asked myself, what am I D doing? not finishing school? I realized I was a liar. I had told myself that I would never drop out, yet I went back on my word and did anyway. So, at some point during the summer, I had found myself and went back to school to finish what had I started. I just could not waste all I had conquered. Coming back to a situation I had left, I put my past aside and changed myself into a B more respectful student and a more educated young man. I knew what I needed and I knew I had to work for it. Living through high school may have sucked, but I grew to be a better person E than what people thought I would be, and I learned that the only one who can make me succeed in life is me—myself, my attitude, my expectations. n J I m E n Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs My life’s been a roller coaster.

My life has been like a rollercoaster. I have been going up and down in my life through my high school years. My freshmen year was the best year for me because of the new experiences with my friends, experiencing new things, and getting a lot of knowledge in my mind. My sophomore year changed because of my grades and because of classes I missed from skipping and not doing the work. I really just wasn’t thinking about school at this time. I didn’t like being there. When I think back, I figure if I had had more interesting classes, like art and gym—something where I could express myself—I maybe would have liked it better.

Instead, my dislike for school grew, and my life went from good to bad in one year. Then I had S gotten in a lot of trouble, and then I found out I got transferred to another school because of my age and GPA. I was transferred to Riveria Beach Prep Academy my junior year, but instead of A being mad about it, I took with me to my new school a new attitude. I also came in with something else different, and that’s the mindset to be successful in life and make a way. m

Since the transfer, life has been good, and I’m back on the right path, making something out of U nothing. I even got skipped up from a junior to a senior; I have a better GPA and better grades now, and I’m looking at a diploma in my hands, which makes my family and friends happy. Hon- E estly, I’m lucky because I’ve got a good family, and I know that they love me. In fact, my older L cousin wants to help me continue my education and my being a grown man by having me move up to Tallahassee to go to college. I like the idea a lot. He’s even been talking to me about things I could major in. I don’t know what I will study, but I do know one thing: This next phase of my life will be another roller coaster ride. I know this going in, but unlike the first go-round when I B just lost interest and got off, this time, I plan to stay on—all the way. R O W

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs My journey through high

school: Finished.

My life has been filled with ups and downs, but I am very grateful that I made it this far. My first year in high school, I attended Palm Beach Lakes, and I started off doing wonderful, but then I got comfortable and figured that I could hang out and work later. Little did I know, it was affect- ing my standing and my progress. As the end of my 9th grade year came rushing on me, I pulled through and was barely classified as a 10th grader. I was overjoyed that I finished that first year.

As my 10th grade year approached, I knew that it was crucial year for me being that I had to pass the FCAT in order to be stress free for my last two years of high school. I studied as hard as I A could and did all of my work, and it paid off. I passed both parts of the FCAT and was promoted to the 11th grade. Thinking that because I passed both the reading and the math FCAT, my 11th grade year would be my laidback year; it would be less work and more play. And that’s exactly n what it was. My grades began to fall and all my hard work was going down the drain. So I transferred to Inlet Grove High School, figuring if I could pull away from all of my friends then I could t probably hurry and pull my grades up, but it didn’t work, and I felt like I had let myself down. O At this point, my mother pulled me out of public school and put me in home school, which I did- n’t think was a good idea because I was at home with no teacher. It was just my computer and n me, so I figured that I could do my work when I wanted to, at my own pace, not knowing that I was on deadline. Everything had a certain date to be submitted to my virtual teachers, and I dis- I liked it and felt like giving up because there was all of this work with no teacher to explain it to me. It was just instructions that sometimes I did not understand. I felt like my life was over, and O there were no other options. That is, until my mother’s friend told her about Riviera Beach Pre- paratory & Achievement Academy. She explained that this school helps students pull their grades up and earn credits. B When my mother explained this to me, I was overwhelmed. A great weight had been lifted off my shoulders. When we came to visit , I noticed it wasn’t like regular schools. There was a Y change in the environment. There was more order and more rules. I’d even say the school was strict. I kind of wanted to back down, but I knew my education was important and I needed to R get it by any means necessary. So my mother enrolled me. D

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Strong Start. Rocky Middle. Successful Finish.

Many people see being strong as being able to be in the streets. For me, being strong is just being able to go to school, get good grades, and be an adult. That’s exactly how I started off. My freshman year was a brand new start for me. It was my first year in JROTC as well as my first year in high school. My grades were great and ROTC was fabulous. Straight A’s, ranked up every week. I was going strong.

But my second year, everything started slipping through the cracks. Things at home weren’t the D best. My older brother was getting locked up every other week. My grades went down to B’s and C’s. I wasn’t that into ROTC anymore. I had a lot of anger inside. E

Even though my brother and I didn’t get along all the time, he was my brother. I never thought S that it would happen to my family: cops surrounding the house, detectives coming from left and right. It was stressful. Hearing my mom cry at night, knowing she was hurting made me want to t step up. I cooked, cleaned, did anything she asked. I even woke up at 5:30 in the morning to get my brother when he was released. Honestly, it was all beginning to take a toll on me. I

Not only was my brother making it hard for me to stay focused on my schoolwork, but I also n struggled to see why my father didn’t pay attention to me. As a young lady, I wanted my dad’s Y attention. Although I had my stepdad whenever I needed him, I still longed for my real dad’s attention. By my junior year, I had dropped out, moved out, and gotten a full-time job. It was all great in the beginning, but then it failed. I started seeing what my mom meant when she said that it wasn’t easy. I wanted to go back school, so I moved back with my mom and stepdad and C also got back into school. A year behind, I didn’t think I would be graduating on time, but thanks to my parents and my school, I am here. I am strong! I am the young lady I used to be, and I’m h crossing the high school finish line with a diploma in hand. It was a rough race, but well worth the successful finish. A V I

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Strict parents

won’t see me grown

Growing up, Mother always taught me to have pride in myself, and I showed it by the way I dressed and how I carried myself, and I was okay.

But after leaving middle school and entering high school, the pressure began. My parents were really strict on me. They started getting on me about a lot of stuff and they set a lot of rules: No hanging out and no talking on the phone after 8 p.m. They didn’t want me to end up like other teens—in jail, dead, or pregnant. But what they didn’t understand was that I was becoming more rebellious as a result. I

So in my sophomore year at Dwyer, I started skipping my biology class with a couple friends until n a teacher started catching up to us. My parents were so disappointed in me; I decided to get my stuff together and focus on me. When I entered the 11th grade, I was doing great, but it still was- g n’t enough to make up for what I hadn’t done my previous year. When I became a senior, I was doing better, but I still needed to make up two credits and my GPA was below a 2.0, so my only R choice was to go to Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy. The school helped with so much. (They take the time to help you with anything you may need.) Coming here made me I realize that I’m not the only one struggling. D All my parents want is for me to become a successful young lady. My goal is to go to college, to become more independent, and most importantly, to be happy. My four years of high school were full of ups and downs, and I’m glad to say that I survived. Most teens don’t make it to their graduation, and I thank The Man above and my parents for guiding me and being there through C everything. If it weren’t for them to keep me on lockdown, I don’t know where I would be now. I U love you Mom and Dad. U A D R

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs It took time,

but it happened.

As a graduate of Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy, I must admit, I came a long way. It’s finally time to make the people around me joyous. My freshman year in high school, I attended Palm Beach Gardens. I really liked it, but there was just too many problems going on. My sophomore year, Gardens expelled me, so I went to Dwyer, but I disliked it because I just felt like I didn’t belong there. I belonged at Gardens, and that’s when it hit me: I would do anything to leave Dwyer. And that’s exactly what I did; I just stopped attending at all. I was out for 92 R days. Then I got myself in trouble with the law. I was arrested and incarcerated. I was disap- R pointed in myself because I took myself away from my family and away from my freedom. O The whole time I was incarcerated, I had a chance to get my GED, but I told myself that I was bigger than that. I told my counselor and mom the same thing. My counselor thought me B passing on the opportunity to get my GED was a bad idea because I was getting older and I “might get too old for public school,” but I thought, I’m not going to be there long anyway. I got E locked up September 2008 with four credits, left February 2010 with 18 credits. I picked up at Dwyer where I left off, and this time I didn’t care about not liking the school. I just wanted to R graduate. After spring break, my counselor came to me and said that I was classified as an 11th grader with 13 credits. I couldn’t believe it. Just two months prior, I had had 18. How could I lose t credits? After this, I just stopped caring about school altogether. Soon enough, Dwyer sent me papers stating I had to go to Roosevelt Full Service Center because of my age.

I started Roosevelt, and it was okay this time. I was just not that focused and I had trouble D almost all year. As time passed, I started to get close to 24 credits, and I could see that could do this. So I picked up a bit and worked a bit harder. I didn’t finish that year, but I had gotten up to U 20 credits. I started the 2011-2012 school year with a bang, I mean absolutely excellent. I made n straight A’s, made the honor roll, and now, after so much time, I have made it graduation. S t O n

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs The middle’s better

than the beginning.

I arrived into this world May 19, 1993 at St. Mary’s Hospital at 11:00 a.m. My mother is Adrinne L. Redd and my father is Guerry T. Everett. As I was growing up, I had chest problems, so when I t was four years old, I had surgery. But this was just my beginning. I The real story starts when I began attending William T. Dwyer High School. And that’s where I met my first love, Jamaar R. Jones. Our life changed on August 10th 2011 when we had our baby E boy name Jamaar R. Jones Jr. We love our son so much, and we do everything together. We met when I was in the 9th grade and have been with together for three years. R

I ended up at Riviera Beach Prep. because a friend of mine told me that if I attended this school, I A would graduate on time. At the time, the school was Roosevelt Full Service Center. Now, we’re located at the old Inlet Groove High School. There are a few more students attending this year, but still nowhere near as many as were at Dwyer, and that’s good because I can stay focused. L Compared to last year, I never knew my grades would look the way they do. I make A’s and B’s. A’ Even though I have a baby so I can’t study the way I want, I have family members who are willing to help me. They are so excited that I’m walking across the stage. The happiest part of my life is S that I’m doing this, I’m graduating while also knowing that my baby wasn’t a burden, but an h inspiration. I made it. A E

E V E R E t t Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Dreams crashed,

but I’m a survivor.

We always know that life is hard, but something worthwhile should never come easy. Life has peaks and valleys, twists and turns. No wonder only a few can make it unscarred, but again, just because life is tough and never apologizes doesn’t mean this should be used as a reason to give up. I remember that my abuela would always tell me, “When life gives you lemons, make lemonade.” So listen from the wise, and I have always followed her motto. m

At such young age, I had to mature fast, and as a result, I really never had a childhood. It just al- A ways seemed that I was the backbone of my family, of my mother. No, it wasn’t fair, but I had to do it—I had to be strong—in order to have a better life and in order to further my future. R

My motivation was always to make my abuela proud—may she rest in peace—and to help my I little sister have a better life than what I did. Because of my sister, I pushed myself to work A harder, think smarter, and learn quicker. It was so important that I note my mistakes and remember them so I don’t repeat them. Still, the lessons were sometimes slow to come by; I fell into deep darkness and never thought I would see the light again. Being born in my family, I love them, I do, but it’s not the family I would have chosen. My family is like taking fun away from a f child. They think about the hustle, about successes, about reaching an American dream—even though that dream, I came to find out, was near impossible to make a reality. R

I started to work at young age since Mama seemed to flake, but it was all good since she herself A never really had a childhood. Having me wasn’t great surprise and not having a father to say, “I’ll pay the bill” or “Here’s your allowance for the week” or “Add a cherry on top of that” didn’t n make growing up any easier. But I don’t regret anything, not one part of my story because all of C it helped me mature and be more independent. All of it made realize the truth about this world; it helped me open my eyes to see that this place is cold and even your own blood can turn their I back on you. I used to be the one to party her night away just to get away from my reality, and though I’m nice and bubbly, I’m not really friendly—at least not with my own story—since I al- S ways seem to lose the people I’m closest to. C

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs

Still, I’m thankful for my education. I’m thankful for the strength to get through it. In all my days, I’ve made gallons and gallons of lemonade. I’m not perfect, and I don’t live to be. But no one really knows how insane my life is outside these hallways. Throughout my years in high school, I had rough roads to travel, I messed up so many times with my grades, and I didn’t really know how to handle it. But Riviera Beach Prep was a great help. Where most kids look forward to going on m break—winter and spring—I couldn’t wait to get back. This is my safe place, and I told my teachers this truth time and time again. A

I was never as comfortable at Palm Beach Lakes as I have been at Riviera Beach Prep. There, I had R to be the one to make others happy, but here, I had the opportunity to just worry about me, to just be Maria. And I liked that. The school helped me with my credits, it kept me focused, and gave me a I chance to really consider what I want to do with my future. A highlight was job shadowing at La Fiesta Radio, where I discovered my passion for communications. Also, I love that RBP is a school A focused on the students’ needs. The teachers really cared about us, and for me in particular, Mr. C would stay after to help with credit lab. It seemed that everyone here knew how bright our futures could be; they were just waiting for us to see it too. So, in a nutshell, my dreams crashed and f burned, but through the pain of life and the joy of RBP, I found new dreams, and most importantly, I found that I am a survivor. Even after high school, my dedication will stay the same; I am focused R on doing better for my sister and for me because we deserve the best. A n C I S C

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Story of My Life:

Still Standing

Arriving into this world July 21, 1993 wasn’t any old regular day for me. You see, I am what you call “A Miracle Baby.” Struggling with asthma at a young age, my childhood wasn’t easy. In and out of the hospital made school difficult, but my intelligence was never affected. I was destined for greatness; I just hadn’t realized it yet. By the time I reached 5th grade, I was an honor roll student, straight A’s, capable enough to conquer the world that’s just how must strength I n gained). I On an almost perfect path of my life, life couldn’t get any better (or so I thought). The divorce of my parents took a major toll on me in 2004. With every reason to give up, I managed to keep the C faith, stay focused, and concentrated on making it through junior high. I succeeded, and this brought me to my arrival at William T. Dwyer in 2008. Beginning this new journey, my heart was O extremely heavy, having to watch my mother be a single parent to my four other siblings. Still, I L was yet again on a perfect path. Things were going well until the death of my grandfather on October 9, 2008. My life changed after this in so many ways. I had never lost someone so close E to my heart, so I didn’t know how to deal with the pain. Food was tasteless, colors were dull, and life was one huge blur.

Over the years, I switched schools several times. I even moved to Jacksonville and attended Job f Corps for a year. Life slowly became great once again, and I was on track with everything. Home- sickness brought me back home, and giving up wasn’t an option, which lead me to Roosevelt E Full Service (Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy) with a surprise bundle of joy on the way. As I waited for the day that I walked across the stage and earned my high school R diploma, I received my biggest blessing. On January 26, 2012, my son Devonte Lamar White Jr. g was born. U Now, a teen mom on track to graduate, I present to you, Nicole Michelle Ferguson. I have been through many trials and tribulations, but I’m still standing. And it’s not over. This isn’t the end of S my life. Truly, my journey is just beginning. O n

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Mommy’s little girl

got through it.

Mommy always wanted me to make it through high school. Mommy wanted me to go to college. At 15, I knew what her dreams were for me, but when God called her home, my dreams went away with her. It would be years before I would make her dreams my reality.

In the 9th grade, I got pregnant. I thought I was in love, but I wasn’t. And the truth back then was, my daughter was a mistake, but the truth right now is, she is the best mistake I’ve ever m made. My little girl Ja’meria gave me an opportunity to be a mom to her the way Mommy was to me. I get to hold her until she falls asleep smelling so soft, and as I hold her and as I love her, I’m E closer to my mom. R By this point, I was just 17 and still had a long way to go to make Mommy proud. I was devas- tated from not having my mom. I really just didn’t care. In the 11th grade, I came to school when I C felt like getting out the house. I came to school to be social but not to learn. It was a blur, but slowly I started to see the light. E

By the 12th grade, the light suddenly was as bright as my Mother’s smile, and I was pushing to D get through. If I make it to the light, which is graduation, Mommy would be so proud of me. I would be able to provide a better future for me and my daughter. I imagine when I walk across E the stage my mom will be screaming, “That’s my baby!” She will be clapping and making a fool, S dancing like she caught the Holy Ghost. Me graduating, this was her first dream but not the last. I will be attending college to pursue a career in cosmetology. Soon enough, Mommy will be dancing again, and guess who it is on the other side of her? My little girl Ja’meria, dancing with her. Sure enough, Mommy’s little girl got through it, and will keep on getting through it. g A Y n U S

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Continuing

not to stop pays off

My days in high school were the most rewarding days in my life. Why? Because I grew up. Being in high school was the beginning of learning about myself, meeting new people, and learning how to interact with many different races, attitudes, and personalities. But my high school years weren’t how average teenagers would want theirs to be. I was a high school dropout. Right as I was four credits away from graduating, which should have been in 2010, I dropped out. I just quit. Things occurred, and I didn’t want to go to school. It just wasn’t interesting to me anymore; plus my graduating class had already left me, so I had no one there I could graduate with. Instead of going to school, I found a job and got my money.

After two years of working went by, I noticed that every school for “higher” education that I was interested in required either a high school diploma or a GED. My mommy always told me, “A High school Diploma and a GED are not the same. If they were, they wouldn’t have an option of either.” After figuring m out that I could get nowhere without some form of high school education, I went on the Internet to look for schools online that would educate me without having a high school diploma and that were accredited. I I couldn’t find any that weren’t trying to break me. A I tried Medical Career Institute, but I was too young. Then I tried Florida Career College. I took the test needed to get in, and at first I did not pass, but I got a little tutoring and went back a second time, passing with flying colors. I actually had one of the highest scores out of those who took the test, which made me feel as if I could do anything. So instead of going through with that opportunity, I decided to look for other schools, but I didn’t have any luck. I stopped looking for schools and found another job instead. I J was working two jobs: Sonic and Burger King. Then I had a thought one day that maybe, if I save up enough money, I could buy my diploma. Of course that didn’t work either. A

One day, Mommy came to me and said, “Mia, you know hard work pays off and continuing not to stop C pays off too.” One week had gone by, and I was getting very persistent about finding a school to get my diploma, and that’s when Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy came up, and it stopped my search. I started in November. K

When I first started, I thought that it was going to be just like my other schools…BORING!! But once I sat S down and told myself I was not going to let the streets influence me while I was in school, I realized I was determined. I was going to get my diploma. When it was all said and done, I was going to graduate. O Being at Riviera Beach Prep. taught me to never give up, to always believe in myself, and to remember that, no matter what happens, education is the key and it’s up to me to unlock it. That’s why I’m glad I’m n here today to say I’m apart of Riviera Beach Prep’s first graduating class—the Class of 2012. I would also like to say THANKS to my mother, Mrs. Hubbard, Ms. Smith, Mr. Pollard, and Mr. Simmonds for giving me another opportunity to show my brilliance. Thanks to you all, I’m shining.

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Never thought

I would make it.

I attended Royal Palm Beach High School where I was into sports. I played football and basketball my freshman year, but I decided to give it up because I was no longer interested. My J 10th grade year, I started falling off. I found myself hanging with the wrong people. I thought school wasn’t for me. I was always skipping class to chase girls or to just walk around school. I A got into a fight that started a riot involving a large group of people fighting each other. I got 20 days out of school suspension for my part in the fight, and it was around exam time. When I got C back to school, I started doing the same thing again, getting in trouble and falling behind in my schoolwork. There was no way of making up all the work and getting back on track, and my Q family was upset with the choices that I had made, but they still pushed me to stay in school. U My guidance counselor at Royal Palm thought going to another school where I could catch up on my credits was my best bet if I wanted to see graduation and receive my high school diploma. E I attended Roosevelt Full Service for the rest of the year where I started to catch up. My 12th grade year I attended the new Roosevelt, now known as Riviera Beach Preparatory & L Achievement Academy where I continued to stay on track with my credits. I attended school every day and made my parents proud, getting good grades and staying out of trouble. I was I happy when I found out I passed the FCAT and needed only two credits to graduate. It means a lot to me to know that my parents are going to be happy and have a smile on their faces when I n walk across that stage at graduation and bring home my diploma.

L O U I S

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs R. I will make a difference today.

Through a journey of ups and downs, joys and sorrows, happiness and sadness, I made it! I fulfilled my duties as an elementary, junior high, and high school student, and I have earned the right to celebrate this time of academic and personal success. This road was not an easy one, not by any means. As an innocent third grader at Roosevelt Elementary, I faced a struggle a child my age should certainly not have to. I was retained twice due to problems in my speech, which ultimately affected my reading comprehension skills and made passing the FCAT a seemingly B impossible task. But, even at such a young age, I did not let this stop me from reaching my goal to graduate high school. I fought through adversity and did everything needed to improve my R speech and perform better on this standardized test; and I passed it! I As a high school student at Palm Beach Gardens High School, I faced another obstacle to getting the diploma I so desperately desired. I was unfortunately informed that I could not remain a A student there because I had not reached the academic milestones required for me since I was in a magnet program, and Gardens was not my district school. Immediately, people began to doubt n me because they were worried that I would not be successful academically after having to n transfer to a new school. This doubt motivated me. I was determined to prove all the skeptics wrong and show them that I would receive my high school diploma and continue my education A into college. Although I am currently not a college student, I have achieved what so many students strive to accomplish throughout grade school. I plan on beginning my post-high school career at Palm Beach State and transferring to Florida Memorial to pursue a career in Communications by which I will make a difference. But first, I will relish this current moment. I m am beyond blessed to be able to GRADUATE! A L O n E y

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Foolish, needed to see the light.

"Foolish, needed to see the light"—that’s a quote I’ll never forget. If one day I ever write a book, I will use that, guaranteed. It was the time when I was getting ready to graduate from the one and only high school. All turned out well, but it was a difficult journey that I had to see myself and work out, but my family was also a great support in helping me to overcome, to succeed. Because of them, I was able to reach up and into that beautiful light. J

First off, that wrongful state of mind that I grew into made me immune to the system. My mind O wished for the wrong things, so I was not doing the right things. In the midst of everything, I had O witnessed tragedy, and hope. When you witness the wrong and the right, it can alter your mind, expanding your knowledge and allowing you to benefit from both. On the rear side of it all, I had E gotten to work, which sent me off on the right path: I achieved that glorious light, and I gained so much. y The wrong thoughts running through my head made me oblivious to the so called "Educational System." I don’t know how, but it just happened. I progressed into a non-caring fool. I just didn’t do homework; instead, I focused on myself, doodled on all my papers, every single one! When the teachers would check homework or class work, they would look at mine and probably think they M were in a tattoo shop or a NYC subway. For one whole year I would sit in class and freehand tigers, skulls, tikis, graffiti, flames, butterflies, flowers, names—anything and everything that would waste my valuable school time. I was just dumb, focused on the wrong things, thinking more about being C social and making friends. I figured, I was out of training now, so let’s enjoy life, screw school! I’m gonna pass, pshh, no problem. I set out to just make friends, be the kid everyone loved. I talked a lot, I texted every single minute, skipped school as if I was an eclipse, showed up rarely, but when I did it was pretty interesting. I could have written a book on how to skip school and avoid homework. I was that creative with dodging my education. L

I was numb to the right thing and not focused. So I set out to get money, make girls happy, and not h worry about the little things like school. BIG MISTAKE! I cared more about my art and my muscles and especially myself. I see now that I wasn’t really thinking; I was just screwing myself. Of course I didn’t plan it. It just happened. I knew I had to do school, to do homework or a project, and to take A notes, but there was a point in my life where I just refused to care. It was as if none of it existed. I guess you could say my dumb butt was in DENIAL, and this denial landed me at Riviera Beach n Preparatory & Achievement Academy.

At the median of my story, I woke up. To me, it’s like I was Frankenstein, and God, my Creator, E brought me to life! My new environment and ways to get to school and back home were different. y

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs

They were harder on my family, because, well we’re not doing so well right now, and that’s no lie, so gas is an issue. I know everyone’s struggling, and my family is no exception. Also, time is an issue; my family is already upset because they think their son is a failure. They have no more hope for me, and they think to themselves, What are we doing? Are we wasting our time?, or What the heck did we do wrong? This makes me feel like a piece of crap, like the worst son ever. I let down myself, yes, but I J also let down my parents who nurtured me and raised me up into a great, smart, respectful young man. O In order to get back on track, sacrifices had to be made. We had to cut my hours at work, so I could attend school for the full time required, which slowed down my income, hurt my confidence, and E made me worry, made me feel dumb and like everyone knew. But this negative look at life wasn’t the end of me. I also had a great victory. I saw how the other kids at the school acted, what happened or what could happen. I saw how good the teachers were, and the staff. They cared, and y that’s a biggie. It just inspires you; they inspired me and filled me with hope. There are always great people out there, and they inspire you to see and realize you’re not alone; other people are working hard too, and they wanna reach that light just as much as you do. Finally, and it was a long time coming, but I wanted to succeed. M It killed me to think I was done for. Everyone said I was dumb, I ruined my life, I had nowhere to go. How could I let my parents down? It was thing after thing and they piled on like football players on a C fumbled. I saw and knew I could do this, I will do this. I knew it wouldn’t be easy, and it might not be fun, but it was just something I had to do. I was on a mission to prove that I was not a failure and that I I was not dumb or a lost soul. I was through letting down my shamed parents. And I was not going to let negative thoughts get me down: Did I screw up for good? Did I ruin the relationship with my family? Did I lose all my friends? I was focused on the light. While all these were "sure" to me, I witnessed L tragedy and hope, like Ying and Yan, Positive and Negative. I was finally at a place of balance. And this is what my journey did to me. h h Overall, it was worth it. The journey was everything I wanted. I achieved that light of mine. I had pulled off what most thought was impossible. With hatred in every corner, I had persevered. My high A school years were like Armageddon in my house and in my life, and I started it, but like Bruce Willis, I was going to finish it. I was going to lay it all on the line. I was going to get an education. My parents n were mad a lot, but I knew it wouldn’t last if I could just show them that I could do this school thing. They always knew I could do it, but they wanted me to really show them that I could, which is exactly what I did. E

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs

I made it happen, and when I graduate, I know they will probably shed a tear, at least I know my mom definitely will. Dad, he’s a tough guy, but he will know in his heart that he is proud of me. My parents did do the right thing with me, and it all worked out. It wasn’t peachy or even easy, but it worked, and that’s what will mean the most to them. I got off my dumb habits and became proactive, which finally allowed them to be happy. But I know I’ll get the most satisfaction when they J tell me their “proud" of me, and these words from my parents will mean a lot. For me, these words are a little piece of that light I worked toward. O I guess you could say I had a battle with myself. I was at war with the world. I was foolish. I did the wrong things, thought the wrong things. I had it all backward. If me and the kids from my 9th grade E year were in a race, they would be halfway or a three quarters done when I was still at home, tying my shoes to even get ready. I ended up making people sad and angry, including myself, which y translated into: I don’t have a chance. But eventually, I adapted to the environment of my new school, and the feeling of being a hopeless loser melted away. What thoughts used to be in my mind, just pecking and pecking away as if they’re Woody the Woodpecker and I’m the tree filled with a tasty snack, dropped off, faded to black. I felt different emotions, saw different views, and realized M the right and wrong.

I finally came to the right understanding. I opened my eyes, expanded my mind, and allowed new C knowledge to flow in and fill me with righteousness. I took the right first step and pushed, and pushed, and I finished this climb up a mountain of challenge. I had to sacrifice and endure, but I I persevered, and for the right thing , for the right reason. I was set out on the right path finally, and in the end, I was victorious. I reached all my goals, met all my expectations. I was once foolish and L needed to see the light, but now, now I know: The journey won’t always be smooth and easy, but staying positive, maintaining hope, and acquiring knowledge will eventually lead me to glory as I dash h into that illuminating, amazing light. A n E y

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Tragedy takes triumph to achieve greatness.

Achieving greatness is never accompanied without a price—whether it be money, sacrifice, and/ or struggle. In my case, it was accompanied by struggle and sacrifice.

My years of high school were not what a typical teen should have to endure, and I am deeply regretting many days of them. Starting high school, I had the typical jock dream of being a sports star. I did the usual routine, which included flunking out because of traditional “jockitus.” D Although this did not last long, it set me back. Eventually, I got back on track only to be blocked off by bars and a clouded mind—neither made things any easier. Mind-racing (damn, how, why, O can’t be, this must be a dream), “Chow time” (wow some dream this is). But it wasn’t a dream. It was my reality. n

Okay, let’s try this again: new school, new people, or at least I thought they were. Dwyer’s Z bigger, but has the same atmosphere. My first day back to a regular school and already trouble was brewing down my alley. Still, I hoped I could get back on track and be a part of some sort of E team. Finally, tryouts come around; I knew my skills were up to par so I was not worried. As for grades, sure my grades were good, or so I thought. Constantly I tried to get on the team, but so R many obstacles blocked my way. Dang, no one should have to go through so much to be a part of something great, but once again I was haunted by my past. It holds me back, making me regret- ful and full of sorrow for everything I did up to this point in my life. P It was rough going all my high school years not being able to play sports, attend any events or do the things that a normal high school student does. Made the ride a whole lot longer than it E should have been. But hey, what doesn’t kill you only makes you stronger. All I can do is be thankful for what’s ahead and be thankful for how far I have made it. Through the thick and thin t of it all, I’m graduating. E R K I n

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Lost Sheep who found his Shepherd

As I glance back in time, all the way back to my freshmen year, I have a firm recollection of a young man who had no end in mind. He had numerous associates but no true friends. In my neighborhood where I grew up, for the most part the only things I saw on my streets were drug dealers and drug addicts. Being a young man who never had a father figure in his life, I felt like the streets could teach me how to become a man. Thus, I met a man who will remain nameless. He gave me my start as a petty pot dealer, and I began selling nickels and dimes. m

Eventually I built connections, but I realized that this small money was not enough since the I comrades I associated with drove complementary cars, had what appeared to be tons of money, and clothed themselves with extravagant jewels around their necks, wrists, and fingers. I envied C them for what I did not have. And of course this had a negative effect on my academic journey. I attended Palm Beach Lakes High School as a freshman, and I remained there long enough to fin- h ish my freshmen football season before I dropped out because I got caught with marijuana. A Furthermore, after my release from high school, I completely fell off track. I began hanging around negative influences and was completely lost. I was a kid with no aspirations or goals in E life. At this point, all I achieved was a middle school education, and my life consisted of drugs, money, and materialistic desires. I’m sure you’re wondering, where was this kid’s guardians, but L there is only so much they can do for a boy trying to be a man and fend for himself too soon. Looking back, before any of this happened, I was a mama’s and grandma’s boy. They babied me to the point where I could get anything I wanted at the snap of my fingers. But once my grandmother passed away, I was never the same. I was nobody’s baby boy anymore. Her death S pierced my heart, which had yet to be healed. That is until the day I met Jehovah, but I will get to that later. Living a life of greed, pride, lust, and envy, I was on the verge of destroying my soul, and that was the only good thing in me. E D When I finally decided to go back to school, so I attended the Adult Education Center where I D planned to get my G.E.D. I was on the verge of receiving my G.E.D when I was removed from the program due to multiple absences. I moved to Great Lakes, Illinois to live with my beloved sister A who never gave up on me and always saw the good in of me. My plan at this moment in time was to enlist in the Armed Forces and try once more to get my G.E.D. I failed my Armed Services C Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, which meant I had no job, no G.E.D, and I needed to study harder if I wanted to enlist into the Armed Forces. C a

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs

After another failed attempt at achieving something in my life, I later decided to move back down south, where I enrolled in an alternative education program; this was my last shot at receiving a high school diploma that I desired immensely. After attending for one year, I received six high school credits and accumulated a 2.1 GPA. The following year, the school closed due to insufficient funds. m After the closing, I enrolled into Roosevelt Full Service where I spent my sophomore and junior years. During this time, the drug dealing was officially a thing of the past for me. One night I I remember spending some time in solitude where I felt convicted inside my heart for not making an honest living, and many other things did not feel right at the time. I remembered a friend C invited me to church, and so I went that Sunday morning, listened to the pastor, and was enlightened. That day, a seed was planted, and from the concrete, a flower would gradually h grow. Following my encounter with God, my heart was truly never the same. I stopped cussing, smoking, slinging, and many other things that distanced me from God. I was taunted, ridiculed, A and mocked by the same people I thought were my friends. But life indeed goes on, and so I put my best foot forward. As my junior year ended, I went from six to 16 credits and jumped from a E 2.1 GPA to 3.2. My family was shocked by the way I turned my life around. I had good grades, got a real job, and in the midst of things, I found God. But I was not finished yet. L

It’s an exciting feeling to finally be graduating. I’ve been waiting for this since the first time I stepped foot on a school campus. I sincerely appreciate the staff at Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy for giving me the chance to finally receive my high school diploma. It’s S been a thrilling ride, and there were ups and downs, but in the end, I can say I did it; I had a good experience in high school, but I’m sure glad it’s over. This chapter is done, and I’m looking E forward to the next. Lastly, I find that the only words fitting to this end were already written by John Newton, and have been sung by many for countless generations: “I once was lost but now D am found, was blind, but now I see.” God is Love. A C C a

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs First, prison. Then, freedom. Now, diploma.

Prison showed me a lot. A lot of people go to prison, come home, and don’t think about going back to high school. Me, on the other hand, I wanted to go back to high school so I could walk the stage with a diploma.

When I was in prison, I could have received my GED, but that wasn’t good enough for me. My mother said, ‘’I’m so proud of you wanting to get your diploma,’’ but to be honest, at first, I t didn’t want to come home and go to school, but I had to think about my life. What I mean about my life is what it would have been like if I didn’t graduate. It’s already hard for me to get a job as E is, and being a convicted felon without a high school diploma will make my life even harder. So that’s when I came up with going back to high school, and I didn’t care how old I would be when R I gradated as long as I walked the stage. R I’m not happy about going to prison at 16, but prison really opened my eyes to life. It made me a better and smarter young man. My life is totally different now than it was before I went to Y prison. I can really send a message to other young black men because the same things they are doing now I used to do and it put me away for two years. So that’s two years of my life I cannot O get back. I was just with the wrong people at the wrong time. Every since prison, I carry myself n different and think I act. I went to prison at the beginning of my 10th grade year, which means I missed out on my whole 10th, 11th,and 95 percent of my 12th grade year I really didn’t get to enjoy my high school years. I really feel like I’m blessed to get to finish high school, and I’m blessed to have my mother and a supportive girlfriend. They were behind me through the whole S thing. h So my message to young black men is: Enjoy your high school years while you can and watch, who you hang around because they really don’t care about your life—they only care about A Themselves. So please, be smart about what you do in life. n n O n

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Take a chance,

Make a change

When I was 16 years old, I moved out of my grandmother’s house. I was never really that bad of a child, but at the age of 16, I was not trying to be stuck in the house on lockdown. So I moved out and started my life. My grandmother is a church lady, so I knew right from wrong. I wasn’t blind to the world. And to this day, I think that me moving out was the best thing that ever happened to me. I don’t regret any decisions I have made. Each one has made me a better person. C At the moment, I was just ready to have some fun. What can I say? I was a teenager. When I moved out, I was still going to Palm Beach Gardens High School, but before I moved out, I knew h that I was failing. So my mom signed me up for Roosevelt Full Service Center. Everyone thought I was going to get it together, but I had just gotten in a real relationship with my girlfriend. I was E too happy to care about anything but her. I was so in love then, and to this very day, I still am. When I thought I had no one, Keat was my somebody who cared. She cared so much that she R motivated me to want to succeed in life. Because of her, I wanted to be somebody. I thank God for sending me an angel like her. I’m very sweet, but I can be so mean. There was a time when O my attitude just ran rampant, and I was mean when I wanted to be, having no regard for others. But my girlfriend has a lot to do with me changing and wanting to be a better person. n

I was supposed to graduate with the Class of 2011, but I didn’t, and I felt horrible about this. The E fact that I didn’t walk with my class was a feeling I never wanted to feel again. I knew I was capable of so much. In fact, I knew I was capable of anything. I just had to put my mind to it.

So that’s exactly what I did. When Roosevelt became Riviera Beach Prep and we got a new t school to go with our new name, I decided to put my best foot forward and show up a new Cherone Thomas. And my efforts are being rewarded—I am finally graduating, and I’m h graduating from my favorite school. I just love my school so much. The teachers, principals, and even the hall monitors are the best and only want what’s best for us. O

I will be getting my DIPLOMA, not my GED. I made it! I took a CHANCE and made a CHANGE. I m used to go to school once a week or whenever I felt like it, but this time, I rode out the whole year, and I am very proud of myself. Not only did I commit to completing my education, but I did A it with a smile on my face. I’m attending Palm Beach State College to become a dental hygienist. I have a great future ahead of me, and Riviera Beach Prep has a lot to do with this. Thank you so much. Thanks to all my teachers and my principals. I love and appreciate all of you! s

XOXO Cherone Thomas, Class of 2012

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs From the bottom to the top

My high school started off at Park Vista where I messed up really bad. That’s where I fell behind. I had horrible grades, and school was very hard. But my main problem was basically trying too hard to get girls to like me. I wasn’t so successful. So I left Park Vista, and after mixing my own self up, I went to A.M.I Kids of Palm Beach, which was a Level 2 program. This was basically jail without the bars. I felt trapped in the worst kind of way—I could see the way out, but I couldn’t take it. I couldn’t get out. I was stuck. X I ended up getting a second chance by getting off probation and going to Palm Beach Lakes High School. I played football so I was getting my grades up, but I was so far behind that I had to A go to Turning Points Academy to try to get caught up. This seemed like an impossible task because there was so much negativity around, which translated into a tornado of distraction. I V got my grades up a little bit then came to Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy. I’m so thankful for this place; it’s where I turned around completely. My life changed. I got a job, I became independent, and left my mom’s house. I love my mom, but living away from her has given me an opportunity to become a man. I think sometimes parents can hinder their children E from growing up; of course this is good because they love us, but then again they need to know when it’s time for us to grow up and become independent. Parents want to be here forever to R hold our hand, but they can’t, and the time to let go is NOW!

It took a minute, but I’m back on track. I am Vice President of the Senior Club, plus I am graduating. The bottom for me was scary. It was a reality I didn’t want to live. Just imagine being V locked way, with no way out, no amount of I’m sorry’s or Please, I won’t do it again could save me. Yeah, the bottom for me was a mess, but now I’m on top where everything is wonderful and I bright. I’m excited about my new beginning; I deserve it. Everyone deserves a second chance, and sometimes a third, and I don’t plan to waste mine. Soon I’ll be going to college, getting me a C degree in law and becoming a lawyer. This career path is important to me because of all I’ve K been through. When I was bad, there were people to help me, and I want to return the favor. I K want to be able to help people in need of justice and especially those in need of a second E chance. R s

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Single mother

reaches goals for Son

Never in a million years did I think I would be a single parent in high school. On my goal list, being a parent was the very last thing to accomplish. First on my list was high school, then college degrees, and lastly getting married and having a baby. But all of this soon came to an end. On June 16, 2009, I found out I was expecting. School was always my first priority before my son D came into my life; I was on track to graduate, and I was happy. E Soon after he was born, my grades and GPA started dropping, so I just dropped out thinking it was the right thing to do. I’m thankful for my mother who pushed me to do better and go back L to school. Also, I did not want to be another statistic; I couldn’t be a single mother who doesn’t finish school; I couldn’t not have a high school diploma. So I took her advice into consideration O and decided to attend Rivera Beach Preparatory. R At first, I didn’t want to go to this school, but I’m glad I did. I met teachers and administrators who really cared about me—especially Mrs. Waldron and Mrs. Hubbard-Williams. They both E gave me the big push I really needed when I was slacking. I’m very proud of myself; I was humbled by my experience and by my life choices, and I was glad that I could go to them in any S time of need.

Being a single mother wasn’t going to hold me back for too long. I plan to pursue my dreams with my son by my side. He’s my inspiration, and I’m doing everything to make him happy. I’m Y finally crossing high school off my goal list and heading to college to start off my career, because it’s my duty to make sure he’s well taken care of. So, yes, I’m a single parent who is reaching her h goals, and I’m proud of this, and I’m proud that my son can see me accomplish them. Soon, it A will be his turn. A R B O U g h

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs I am 21 and graduating. Success!

I am proud to be a 21-year-old black male who made it through high school. Not a lot of black males in our black community make it all the way, but I did.

I had a crazy journey in high school. There were a lot of ups and downs, but I really didn’t let that stop me from getting my education. I attended Palm Beach Gardens High school before becoming a student at Riviera Beach Prep. I really did love that school so much—from my friends to my teachers to the staff members to my principal, it was a great school. But at the time, I didn’t take school seriously. When I had become a senior, that’s when I wanted to play around with my education. That’s when I started skipping school, skipping classes, getting kick out of class, fighting, cursing teachers out, and all kinds of bad things.

I will never forget my A.P., Mr. Coleman. We always bumped heads. He was thinking I was a bad A influence to the other students, and he got tired of me just fooling around with my education, and my grades were a mess. I beat up another student so badly that he decided to expel me. A When Mr. Coleman kicked me out, he sent me to another school that was supposed to help me graduate on time, but that didn’t happen. R

So months went by, and the school year came, and I attended Roosevelt Full Service to help me O get my grades up and got all the credits I need to become a senior in high school. When I started attending Full Service, I was back to square one like how I was when I was attending N Palm Beach Gardens. At the time, I never came to school. My grades were falling, and on top of it all, I had a medical condition. Still, when I came back at the end of the school year, I managed to pass all my exams. Now what was my next step in life? H Over the summer I got a letter in the mail from Riviera Beach Prep, which I didn’t know was Roosevelt Full Service, just with a new name and a new location. When I finally went up to I register, that’s when everything changed for me. I only needed four and half credits, so when they gave me my classes, I started making good grades and passing all my exams. Finally, I L became a high school graduate. I’m so proud that I made it. I had a long journey, but if it were- n’t for my family, I would be just another black young man without an education. I’m glad they L encouraged me to go back to school to get what I needed. I can’t wait to see their smiling faces!

Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy’s Senior Class Memoirs Congratulations graduates!!!

And remember the words of Mr. Jack: Time passes. Memories fade. Knowledge lingers.

A project of Communities In Schools of Palm Beach County & the caring staff of Riviera Beach Preparatory & Achievement Academy