Congratulations to Brian!

Meadowbrook High School, Class of 2025

Brian, a 2025 Meadowbrook High School graduate, always stood out—not just for his style or his interests, but for his mindset. “Breaking the system,” he said, “is about thinking ahead and thinking differently”. And with the help of Communities In Schools of Chesterfield (CIS-C) Site Coordinator Dr. Erica Hale, he’s doing just that.

Brian grew up mainly in Chesterfield with his single mother, stepfather, older brother, and younger brother. He has moved around a bit, but he’s always grounded himself in a strong sense of self. In his free time, you can find him thrifting, skateboarding, working, or taking nature walks.

It wasn’t until the winter of his senior year that Brian and his mother met Dr. Hale during a CIS-C senior event at Meadowbrook. That first meeting sparked a new level of support in Brian’s life—one that would help him visualize and plan his next steps beyond high school.

Their relationship quickly became a meaningful one. “Honestly, it took a lot of weight off my shoulders to have Dr. Hale help set me on the right path,” Brian said. Whether it was helping with job applications, building a resume, exploring trades, or making sure he had everything he needed for graduation (including his cap and gown), Dr. Hale was there every step of the way. “She’s chill, caring, and supportive,” he added.

Together, they focused on maintaining grades, making up lost classroom time, and preparing for career opportunities. Brian’s dream of becoming an electrician began to take shape when he was accepted into the CCPS Career and Technical Center and completed pre-apprenticeship training. Withith help from Dr. Hale, his resume showcased his work-based learning skills that led to something even bigger: a job offer with Chewning & Wilmer, a local electrical company. He’ll officially begin his apprenticeship there this August.

Dr. Hale saw in Brian what he needed to see in himself—that he was already the perfect candidate for the trade career path he wanted to follow.

Brian’s vision doesn’t stop at becoming an electrician. He’s dreaming big—one day he wants to own a yacht, two houses (one just for his mom), and be able to give back to the community in a big way. “I could invest in homeless shelters,” he said.

Brian’s story is about more than reaching graduation. It’s about building a life that looks beyond limitations and into possibility—with purpose, passion, and a plan. Thanks to his drive—and the steady support of CIS-C—he’s well on his way.

You can be a part of future students’ graduation success! To invest in the class of 2026, make your donation to Communities In Schools of Chesterfield today!

Read about all of our CIS Class of 2025 Graduates by clicking here.

Brian with CIS Site Coordinator Dr. Erica Hale