The transition from middle school to high school brings emotional and academic challenges for many young students. That’s why the summer before this significant change is a crucial time to provide the support they need.

Urban Services YMCA SF, a Mission Promise Neighborhood (MPN) partner, offers this support through the Power Scholars Academy (PSA), a six-week program across San Francisco for students of different ages. At John O’Connell High School, PSA focuses on the transition for incoming ninth-grade students.

In addition to introducing students to their new school, PSA is an academic program emphasizing math, reading, and science. This helps minimize summer learning loss.

“What I most wanted for my daughter Genesis was for her to get to know the environment since it’s a new school with everything new—the teachers, the classmates—and she liked it a lot. She’s excited to start at John O’Connell,” says Rudy Sánchez, mother of Genesis Tersero, who comes from James Lick Middle School, another MPN school in the Mission District.

The program is also vital for students who have recently arrived in San Francisco, as it continues the process of adapting and welcoming these youth.

“Our program has always focused on meeting students where they are. The majority of our incoming students are newcomers and are at a 4th to 6th-grade reading and math level,” says Patricia Barraza, James Denman Beacon Director at Urban Services YMCA. “At the beginning of the year, we share resources from our afterschool program to help students succeed in their first year. This is why we do what we do. Our partnerships with local middle schools through our MPN partners ensure that students who need our program experience a smooth transition”.

The Graduation

The PSA graduation at John O’Connell took place on July 18. The celebration was bilingual in English and Spanish. During the event, participants gave presentations about their experiences in the program and a group science project.

For many students, it was their first in-person graduation ceremony since the pandemic halted such events.

“I really appreciate how much care you have given to my child. She really needed a trusted adult, and you all have met her needs so well,” said the parent of a 9th grader who took the summer program at O’Connell High School.

The graduation also served as a reminder for parents and mentors to stay in communication with the school, as their involvement is crucial for the programs and the well-being of the students.

“Similarly, it is important for students’ families to feel connected to the school and build relationships with the staff who interact with their children daily,” says Celina Castro-Saelao Director of MPN Partnerships. “Parents are encouraged to stay involved and partner with the school to support their children’s education.”