It’s a normal school day morning. Steven* packs his school bag with his preschool book and pencil. He joins the other students from the children’s home, and they walk to the end of the road where the bus will pick them up. School isn’t something this boy has ever had in his life, but he is thankful for the opportunity and a little nervous.
The school bus arrives at the school, and everyone quickly disperses. The 2nd graders quickly navigate to their classmates, and the other grades follow suit. He pauses, looks around, takes a deep breath or two, reminds himself he can do this, and heads to his classroom. Everyday he is met with the same half grins, and his heart pounds just a little bit harder. You see, this boy isn’t in preschool because of his age; he is in preschool because of necessity. Steven is 11 years old. He should be joining his friends in the 5th grade classroom, but he is here…for now.
Steven has three siblings, and two of them are in the Oasis program as well. His mother passed away while his father was in jail for a reason he didn’t understand at the time. Life was painful and traumatic for these siblings. They were left on their grandmother’s door step, but she was unable to take them to school or feed them. Naturally, Steven followed in the footsteps of his older brother and headed for the streets. At least in the streets they could control the narrative a bit more, but it was dangerous and a vulnerable situation to be in. Eventually Steven left his older brother and went back to his grandmother and siblings. Little did he know this decision would mark one of the biggest turning points in his life.
Not long after this, Steven and his younger siblings were enrolled in the Oasis program. They had a place to live, food to eat, and now a school to attend. While these changes and opportunities were good, Steven continued to struggle with his behavior. He had trust problems and also had low self-esteem because he was behind academically. He could not even spell his own name.
As hard as that beginning was, Steven began to embrace the opportunity for a new chapter. He began to rise to the challenge and test out of each grade level. Teachers and staff created an individualized plan for him, including after-school tutoring so he could catch up. In 6 years, Steven completed 9 grades.
He is now 17 years old and will graduate 8th grade, moving into high school much closer to his peers. Oasis has played a big role in Steven’s story by nurturing and stewarding every moment of his life that has been entrusted to us. Steven has also played a big role in the lives of our staff and program. He is a beacon of hope. He makes our staff feel proud knowing he is a positive role model and that he believes in himself now! His journey isn’t done; we know the best is still yet to come. We thank God every day for the opportunity we have to be in Steven’s life. We are all better because of him.
Steven, and many more students like him, have embraced the gift of education. You can make sure that upper-level students are able to continue on by providing a scholarship. A recurring donation of any amount keeps these inspiring students in school. Would you help them become the graduating class of 2026?
*Name changed for privacy.
