Group aims to build confidence, bridge gap for students

group’s new after-school program at the PPS Gifted Center in Crafton Heights.

“They do wonderful things and I think just as a city we’re lucky to have such a dedicated group helping the kids,” Mr. Covel said.

Maryam, a 16-year-old Brashear student, first attended the PRYSE camp about four years ago. Her family, originally from Kyrgyzstan, had just moved to Pittsburgh from Jordan and she spoke little English and struggledto follow along at school.

This year, PRYSE asked her to be a junior counselor and share her experience with other students who are acclimating to a new city and a new school system.

“That was a good help for me when I was their age and in their situation,” Maryam said. In four years, her English has improved and she’s involved with helping other students. She’s starting to think about what she wants to do after she graduates from high school, and whether she wants to study law or fashion.

PRYSE was a major support for her when she moved to Pittsburgh, she said. Students can learn alongside other students who are going through the same things, and now Maryam can be a supportfor other PRYSE students with questions or who need someone to talk to.

“We’re kind of afraid people will judge us because of how we do stuff,” she said. “But here, it’s up to you.”