For Carlos, senior year was a season of growth, self-discovery, and new purpose—thanks in part to the support of Communities In Schools of Chesterfield (CIS-C) and his Site Coordinator, Dr. Erica Hale.

Carlos is no stranger to big transitions. Born in the Dominican Republic, he spent his early childhood in New York City before his family settled in Chesterfield when he was eight. Adjusting from the fast pace of the city to the quiet of the suburbs wasn’t easy, but over time, Carlos came to appreciate it. The freedom and space of Chesterfield allowed him to find himself. In his downtime, he enjoys going to the gym, taking walks, and reflecting on where life is leading him next.

Carlos describes Dr. Hale as someone who “cares for the people around her” and has been a consistent presence in his life during a critical year. She supported him both emotionally and practically—from helping him apply to Brightpoint Community College and navigate financial aid, to securing his cap and gown and even a suit and tie for a senior event.

“She’s a person I can rely on,” Carlos said. “She checked on me, helped me stay on top of things, and gave me emotional support when I was figuring life out.” This year also marked a major mindset shift for Carlos. He’s proud of how his outlook has changed: “I realized if I’m not going to do it, no one else will. I have to do it for myself.”

Carlos plans to attend Brightpoint Community College to study welding, and after completing the program, he hopes to return to college to pursue a business degree. His long term goals include living a stable, independent life and possibly returning to the Dominican Republic.

In recognition of his hard work and future potential, Carlos was also selected as a recipient of the Robert S. Ukrop Scholarship, awarded through CIS-C to support graduates pursuing post-secondary education. Thanks to his own determination and the steady encouragement of CIS-C and Dr. Hale, Carlos is ready to take the next steps!

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!