There is a new program run by the Yuba Community College District Foundation which has the potential to drastically change the course of young lives. It is called Adopt a Fifth Grader.

Here’s how it works: At an end of the year assembly, fifth grade students, chosen by teachers and principals are recognized, given $25, and told that if they graduate from high school, they will receive $500. However, if they enroll at Woodland College with 12 units, they will receive $1000.

These students are not necessarily the top of the class but are those who might be facing challenges at home or who have potential but are not engaged. The Konocti District is discussing ways to support these students as they move from 6th to 12th grade

Each scholarship costs $700. The money is invested so that $1000 is available for each student upon graduation.

Because this program is new, this being its 4th year, and because it is funded solely by donations and small fundraisers, for the last 3 years, it has only been able to recognize one student per school in each of the Middletown and Konocti school districts. However, this year thanks to groups like the Lake County Retired Teachers Division #35 and Lakeshore Lionesses, as well as numerous private individuals, we have raised an additional $3500. This will add 5 more students to our roster.

But there are 7 elementary schools in south county! We need another $1400 to meet this year’s goal of adding at least one more student to each school site.

We strongly believe that this program, if vigorously implemented, has the capacity to decrease truancy, teen pregnancy, drug use, and delinquency. It gives students an achievable goal and then supports them in reaching that goal. It will have a positive impact not only on the student but our community at large.

Please join us in this effort by donating whatever you can. If you are interested in making a donation please go to www.yccdfoundation.org/lake-campus-fund-2. Thank you so much!

If you would like more information, or to schedule a presentation to have someone speak to your group about Adopt a Fifth Grader, please call Carolynn Jarrett at 707-994-2878.

Carolynn Jarrett lives in Clearlake, Calif.