Written by Olivia, Ashley, and Jack
Our journey as summer staff members for the Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP) has been driven by different motivations, but we all share a common goal: to make a meaningful impact on the students we work with. Each of us – Olivia, Ashley, and Jack – brought our unique perspectives and goals to the program, and together we discovered the transformative experiences that Liberty offers. Despite our different backgrounds, we quickly bonded over our shared mission to support and mentor students.
One of our key responsibilities so far has been creating personal learning plans. This task goes beyond academic planning; it involves connecting with students to help them achieve their short- and long-term goals, often identifying issues they hadn’t recognized themselves. We are learning that students sometimes struggle to articulate their challenges, and it is our job to help them find the words, write down their goals, and stay accountable. This process not only motivates the students but also strengthens our relationships with them. Research backs this up, showing that individualized learning plans can significantly enhance student engagement and achievement by providing tailored support and clear goals.
Organizing activities and events is also leaving a lasting impact. Olivia organized a community event that drew 120 attendees, helping to recruit new students and receive positive feedback. Ashley took students to IBI Engineering Firm, where she witnessed their engagement and excitement about future possibilities. And Jack has been seeing firsthand the importance of establishing trust quickly, recognizing how crucial it is in maintaining these relationships. Research supports the idea that community engagement and exposure to professional environments can significantly enhance students’ career aspirations and motivation.
We believe our work with LPP is significantly impacting the students. Ashley feels she has given them new perspectives, teaching them to see the positive side of life and fostering self-reflection. Positive psychology research emphasizes the benefits of focusing on strengths and maintaining an optimistic outlook. Olivia has been emphasizing the importance of giving positive feedback and encouraging critical thinking. She often asks students to identify one positive thing someone has done for them that wasn’t expected, a question that provokes deep reflection and growth.
Feedback from students reinforces the significance of our efforts. Ashley is hearing middle school girls expressing relief at having a female counselor to talk to about their feelings. Olivia noted the general appreciation students show for the support and perspectives we offer.
What sets LPP apart is its comprehensive approach to student support. Olivia praised the program’s resources and strategic differentiation between middle and high school phases, describing it as “walking next to them.” Ashley highlighted the program’s commitment to going above and beyond to help students achieve their goals through experiential activities, life skills training, and overcoming barriers. Jack noted that LPP counselors focus on a broad range of issues rather than just one specific area, offering holistic support. This comprehensive support is backed by research showing that such programs improve student outcomes.
The summer program provides students with numerous benefits, from getting out of the house and experiencing new things to interacting with peers and engaging in project-based learning. It offers structure, mental health support, and exposure to new cultures, all while giving students something to look forward to. Studies have found that structured summer programs can prevent learning loss and improve social skills.
Our personal growth is mirroring that of our students. We are learning to process and think before responding, to accept that not everything can be fixed immediately, and to adapt to new situations. Looking to the future, all three of us plan to remain connected to Liberty Partnerships Program even once the summer program is over.
Olivia's Experience
For me, joining the summer staff is about exploring my interest in working in a school setting. I am discovering a passion for working with high school students, and social work, through this experience.
Memorable Moments
A memorable moment for me came when I bought Dunkin' Donuts for a student who had never tried it before. Seeing the joy on her face was a poignant reminder of the everyday luxuries we often take for granted.
Tailoring academic support to individual needs is essential.
I am focusing on making connections and understanding different learning styles, embodying Liberty’s commitment to personalized support. Studies have shown that understanding and catering to different learning styles can improve academic outcomes.
Ashley's Experience
I joined the summer staff of the Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP) to gain experience for my master’s degree in social work.
Memorable Moments
My most memorable moments so far have revolved around helping students find a balance between school and home life, teaching them not to carry stress from one environment into the other. This is crucial, as managing home and school stress is essential for adolescent development and well-being.
Tailoring academic support to individual needs is essential.
I emphasize addressing underlying issues, such as food insecurity, before tackling academic struggles. I believe you can’t focus on school when there are pressing issues at home, a point Maslow made clear in his hierarchy of needs.
Jack's Experience
I joined the summer staff of the Liberty Partnerships Program (LPP) to understand what it would be like to work in a middle school environment.
Memorable Moments
One experience that stands out so far was helping a student from a tough background. By building a strong connection and assisting with homework, I was able to not only see the student get ahead academically, but also continue to watch their confidence build.
Tailoring academic support to individual needs is essential.
I place a focus on the unique challenges middle school students face, noting that their issues differ from those in high school due to different classroom dynamics and the absence of study halls.