Tristan’s PEARLS (Positive Engagement Accelerates Relevant Leadership Skills) year-end celebration honoring senior PEARLS and rising 6th graders, Taylar B. and Alana S. Both students are planning to attend Lavilla School of the Arts in the Fall 2024

Each participant was rewarded for exemplary performance since becoming members of leadership development, team work and accountability used to promote exceptional academic attainment.

During the closing celebration, each student received a strand of pearls through a partnership with Hemming Plaza Jewelers owner, Juan Arteaga.  Program services are performed at Richard Lewis Brown Elementary School located in Historic Eastside.

Now in its ninth year, the PEARLS program focuses on leadership skills, manners, speech and career development. The students meet two hours weekly to tackle a full agenda complete with all of the formalities from Robert Rules of Order and minutes approved to empowering celebration, special guest speakers and a closing meditation. Summer enrichment activities include reading, travel, and exploration of the possibilities.

Research shows the many benefits mentoring can have included improved school attendances and lower dropout rates to higher rates of graduation, college enrollment and higher aspirations overall.