Some students take advantage of opportunities when they find them. Andre learned how to seek them out—and, with the support of Communities In Schools, discovered opportunities he never knew existed.

A lifelong Chesterfield County student, Andre attended Hening Elementary School and Manchester Middle School before enrolling at Meadowbrook High School. Outside of school, he enjoys working out, spending time with his three dogs, and working at Burger King.

Throughout high school, one of Andre’s biggest supporters was Communities In Schools Site Coordinator Dr. Erica Hale.

“She has a special place in my heart,” Andre said. “If I had to choose someone who was a trusted adult, I would choose Dr. Hale.”

Their relationship grew through regular check-ins, college planning conversations, and Andre’s involvement in Mega Mentors, a mentoring program that helps students build leadership skills, confidence, and pathways to future success. Through the program, Andre connected with mentors, participated in field trips, and gained valuable insight into life after high school.

“What I liked about Mega Mentors was that the people involved were actually trying to help us,” he said.

As Andre began thinking more seriously about his future, Dr. Hale encouraged him to dream big and explore opportunities that aligned with his goals. Their conversations often centered around where he wanted to be in life and what steps he could take to get there.

Together, they worked on college planning, scholarship applications, and time management. Dr. Hale helped him research schools, make connections, and navigate the application process.

“I probably wouldn’t have applied to all the colleges I did if it wasn’t for her,” Andre said.

That support helped Andre accomplish one of his proudest achievements: earning admission to Virginia Tech.

In addition to getting accepted to his top-choice school, Andre earned his driver’s license, received a promotion at work, and became a positive presence throughout the Meadowbrook community through his involvement in extracurricular activities.

When asked what he appreciated most about Communities In Schools, Andre pointed to the opportunities Dr. Hale helped create for him.

From scholarship support and college preparation to leadership opportunities and special recognitions, Dr. Hale consistently encouraged him to put his best foot forward and pursue experiences that would help him grow.

“She opened doors for me that I didn’t even know were available,” he said.

This fall, Andre will attend Virginia Tech, where he plans to study Computer Engineering. He will also participate in the university’s ROTC program with the goal of becoming an officer in the Air Force after graduation.

While he has ambitious professional goals, Andre’s vision for the future extends beyond career success. He hopes to build meaningful relationships, give back to his community, and become someone his family can be proud of.

“I want to be a good dad and a good son,” he said.

As he prepares to begin this next chapter, Andre carries with him the lessons, opportunities, and support that helped shape his high school experience. With a strong work ethic, a clear sense of purpose, and a network of people cheering him on, he is ready to make the most of every opportunity that comes his way.

You can be a part of future students’ graduation success! To invest in the class of 2027, make your donation to Communities In Schools of Chesterfield today!