Pop Quiz: Assia, a CIS Alumni Supporting Youth
Welcome back to the CIS POP QUIZ! This is a regular, yet totally unexpected, feature where we ask students, parents, staff, our friends, and partners to answer a few questions about what they are learning, reading, and thinking about.
Today we are featuring Assia, a CIS alumni and now gives back to young students as a Youth Development Coach at Lincoln International Studies School. Assia was born and raised in Kalamazoo. She attended Spring Valley Center for Exploration, Hillside Middle School, and graduated from Kalamazoo Central High School in 2018.
Assia’s journey with Communities In Schools (CIS) began in first grade, where she worked alongside Mrs. [Martha] Serio. Inspired by her mother’s [Dr. Tamiko Garrett, CIS Director Site Services] passion for working with children, Assia’s commitment to CIS deepened in her senior year through a dual enrollment program. For Assia, CIS has become a “second home,” playing a pivotal role in both her personal and professional development, while strengthening her dedication to supporting and empowering young people.
We featured Assia in our winter newsletter. You can check out the newsletter here.
Alright, Assia, pencil out, eyes on your own paper. Good luck!
Pop Quiz
What impact did CIS have on your life, and how did it shape where you are today?
“My relationship with CIS through my mom showed me that I liked working with kids. CIS became like a second home, my home away from home.”
How did you get involved with CIS as a student?
“During my senior year through dual enrollment, also working with Mrs. [Deborah] Yarbrough at Kalamazoo Central High School.”
When did you start working with CIS or volunteering?
“I started working with CIS in September before school started.”
What is your favorite thing about being a youth development coach?
“I love working with the kids. Every day is different, and they keep me on my toes!”
Why did you decide to join the CIS Team?
“I used to go to the Boys and Girls Club and liked to support students. I also wanted to be a positive role model for them.”
What does Being Present for students mean to you?
“Showing up every day and being consistent, building relationships, and walking around to observe and support students in what they are doing.”
Who, or what inspires you to work with students at Lincoln?
“My mom inspires me. She was a teacher for a while, worked at the YMCA and Big Brothers Big Sisters, and I always watched how she worked with kids. She’s my biggest inspiration.”
What’s one piece of advice or wisdom you’d share with students about overcoming challenges in school and life?
“Enjoy being a kid while you can and savor it because it goes by fast!”
Thank you, Assia for joining us on #AskMeAboutMy12000Kids! We are excited to check in with you in the future!
Tags: Assia, CIS Alumni, Communities In Schools of Kalamazoo, Pop Quiz
