Over the last 22 years, hundreds of students have discovered the Winston-Salem Street School (WSSS) and the opportunities for life changes offered through our programs. Some have been referred from area public schools, a number have come our way because a friend or sibling found success here, and others reached out because they heard that there was just something different about the Street School. What is that “difference?” Is it that we are a tuition-free private school that offers small class sizes and specialized attention to every student? Maybe it’s that we truly meet each student where they are in their educational journey, whether they need 2 or 20 credits to graduate, or whether they are a sophomore in high school or a 22-year-old adult looking to earn their diploma and a new lease on life. Maybe, it’s just that Street School students feel a special love they’ve never experienced before from the moment they walk through our doors. Maybe, it’s all the above and more.

I feel sure that Street School students gain confidence, knowledge, and a newfound belief in themselves when they commit to being a student in our programs. Sometimes, that’s all they’re looking for, or maybe just someone to reassure them that they can excel, set and reach goals, and experience a life that they once thought unattainable. We always say that there is no “cookie cutter” approach to education…teaching or learning. There is no better example of that than at the Street School. Every day, students are challenged to learn something new, and teachers are tasked with finding different ways to connect and engage with students, so they want to learn. Whether it’s mastering financial literacy skills that will last a lifetime, discovering artistic abilities they never knew they had, or hearing a guest speaker share something that immediately changes their lives, Street School students are truly blessed with opportunities.

Students like Gabe Sweat. Gabe is a shining example of what is at the heart of the Street School experience…appreciation for the chance to grow, respect for the staff who supports you, and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone, even if it means making tough personal decisions. From the time Gabe entered our high school program, you could sense that he was committed to getting everything possible out of his experience. He navigated his way through classes, settling only for honor roll level grades, established himself as a leader on our basketball team, on and off the court, and quickly became a young man who earned the respect of staff and fellow students. We connected Gabe with a community leader and longtime supporter of the Street School, and their mentoring relationship became a positive experience for both, and one that continues to this day. Gabe is currently enrolled at Forsyth Technical Community College, taking advantage of our dual enrollment partnership, and has also landed a part-time job at Forsyth Medical Center, introducing him to life in the medical field, a career path he hopes to follow.

When you support the work of the WSSS, you are helping create bright futures and positive outcomes for students like Gabe. Please continue to believe in our mission, the growing direction of our programs, and most importantly, all the students at the heart of these inspiring stories

With much gratitude,,

Mike Foster

WSSS Executive Director