Skyler: Paying It Forward

Last May, we featured a story about Skyler as he prepared to graduate high school. He wrote an insightful essay in which he reflected on lessons learned and the crucial role that CIS Site Coordinator Ali Jennings from Communities In Schools® (CIS®) of Catoosa County in Georgia played in helping him overcome personal challenges to graduate on time. 

We recently caught up with Skyler to see what he’s up to, how CIS prepared him for life after high school, and if he has any advice for the Class of 2024. Here’s what he had to say:

Graduating high school was a major accomplishment for me. It was very hard at first to get used to not going to school every day because I don't like change. Being in CIS through my high school years has given me a love for helping others. I know how it feels when someone helps you, and I want to help others feel that feeling and pay it forward. Since I graduated, I have been volunteering at a horse ranch. I also did the quest certifications to be able to drug test. I am thinking about taking a simple college course, something with animals. 

CIS prepared me in a lot of ways. It showed me not to give up on myself. There are always people who support and believe in you, even when you think there isn't. Being in the CIS program has shaped my thinking in more of a positive way and allowed me to see there is good in people. I don't know where I would be if I was not in this program. 

If I could give any advice to the class of 2024, it would be if you feel like you are struggling, it never hurts to talk to someone. You never know; they may have gone through similar situations and can help. 

Don't try to change who you are for others. Be true to yourself. CIS has never judged me, and they won't judge you. I would tell them; they matter and not let anyone tell them anything different. I would also tell them not to give up and stay in school. Things will not be this way forever. 

I have tons to say about my former CIS Site Coordinator (Mrs. Ali). Man, where do I start? Mrs. Ali always had a smile on her face and raced to help others in any way she could. It is not just a job to her, that is just who she is. She has a big heart and cares deeply about kids and their families. She has and is changing the lives of so many kids. Mrs. Ali has always treated me like family. I will always be grateful to her. I know her job is not easy, but she never complained. I can keep going, saying what an angel she is, but I think you get the point. 

Where do I see myself in 5 years? Well, that is an easy one. I want to have my place. Have some education under my belt. Most importantly, I will take what I have learned and pay it forward to help others. That is what being in a program like CIS does to you.