March Letter from the Executive Director

Dear familia,

Recently I was given the opportunity of running the NYC half-marathon [this was made possible with much support from friends of ADS.] I was able to reflect that this experience is very much like working at ADS. Here is what I learned:

I took in the beauty of what is New York City. I moved with the adrenaline and enthusiasm that lined the streets of both runners and spectators. I cherished the moment I entered Times Square (as if it was just for me). I took a moment at the finish line to reflect and appreciate that my body could move in a way that afforded me this privilege. Similarly, at ADS, we could home in on everything that is difficult-- the things we are lacking-- or embrace the moments such as a senior earning her acceptance into Cornell this month, her dream school since she was in 6th grade. (This moment was probably the single most amazing moment for her to date.)

At ADS, we smile when a student is able to carry out a dissection in science class without direction. At ADS, we are humbled when parents cry tears of appreciation for changing their child's life. ADS is a special place and, like a half-marathon, we can count down until we get to mile 13.1 or we can just embrace the journey until the finish line, until graduation. When being surrounded by like-minded, mission-driven people, the journey becomes much, much easier. This sentiment amplifies when friends of ADS cheer and support our students from the sidelines, celebrating their and their families' success. And that is why I love ADS and will continue to do this hard work, this work of heart-- because I get to share my experience with the world.

Please read on to meet our in-house head magician, Kateri Baez, High School Operations Manager, dive into learning about Cherisse our Dreamer of the Month while hearing all the buzz around campus. Plus, we have more than 500 college acceptances to date!

Thank you for remaining on this journey with us! We appreciate you!

Gracias,

Melissa Melkonian

Founder and Executive Director