This article was originally published in The Notebook. In August 2020, The Notebook became Chalkbeat Philadelphia.
https://www.youtube.com/embed/0Ojeu-hmby8?rel=0&showinfo=0 In researching our edition on "boosting graduation rates for all," the Notebook interviewed young people who had dropped out and were now reengaging in school. We asked why they left, why they returned, and what obstacles they face. Some described heartbreaking personal situations and herculean struggles. But all displayed hope and optimism about their futures. They were all eager to tell their stories.
Take Quincy Hill, 18, who dropped out of Ben Franklin High School after repeating 9th grade twice. He was motivated to go back to school after a family court judge threatened to put him in foster care. At YESPhilly, he found adults who understood him.
"Teachers here, they got some crazy background stories, too. Some of these teachers know what it’s like growing up in the hood," he said.
Watch our interview with Quincy in the video above as he explains why his new school works for him. And stay tuned, because we’ll be posting more student interviews next week.