The "Scholars In Action" at Keigwin Middle School- A Noteworthy Program Making a Difference

While other schools in the Middletown area might get more press, there are some really special people making some truly special things happen at Keigwin Middle School.  The “Scholars in Action” after school program they have implemented is truly inspiring.   

After having the opportunity to attend and speak at the program’s “Career Night” this past week, I felt compelled to get the word out about a school and teachers that I believe deserves more recognition.  

The opportunity to get involved with the program first presented itself when Todd Novak contacted me. Todd is Keigwin’s building substitute and a major part of the “Scholars in Action” program.  He called about visiting our athletic center here at Wesleyan University with some of their students.  After a few minutes talking with Todd, it became very apparent that he has an enormous heart and is beyond passionate for the students he works with.   

Since then we have stayed in touch, trying to find ways to get involved with “Scholars In Action” and their students.  Through this process I have met more of Keigwin’s passionate people, like Mark Fong and Sarah Hylas, both of whom are also involved in the “Scholars in Action” afterschool program.   

This past week I had the opportunity to go back to Keigwin for the latest event for their afterschool program- “Career Night at Keigwin.”  Organized by Todd and the other teachers that run the program, it is a night devoted to getting the students thinking towards the future.  Career possibilities are presented in the hopes that this gives students more motivation to strive for success.  

Web designers, Police officers, X Ray technician, athletic trainers, prosthetists, veterinarian technicians, even Courtney Zeiller from WFSB Channel 3, and on and on were all in attendance to take time to speak to the students about their chosen career paths.  

It was inspirational to see all the people in this community recognizing the importance of this program and of helping these students realize all the opportunities that exist before them in the many careers presented that night.     

And that to me is the key word- Opportunity.  As you listened to the speakers, it was fascinating that each had found their passion and chosen careers at different points in their life.  But all who spoke had sought out opportunities, taken full advantage of those presented to them and for that reason had found success.  

It was a great underlying message to a fantastic group of students who are all part of a truly note worthy after school program.  All of this at a school with caring and compassionate teachers and staff that are passionate about aiding students in finding the motivation to succeed and make the most of their opportunities.