Shakia Lattimore
2008 SAM State Winner
CIS of Colquitt
Written Expression - Middle School
What CIS Means To Me
By Shakia Lattimore
The CIS program is not just an after school program, but a sanctuary; it’s a home away from home. This is my first year being apart of the CIS program and I can say it has truly made a difference in my life. It has given me hope for the future. My grades have improved tremendously. At first high school was sort of complicated, but after coming to the CIS program made it easier for me to understand my subjects.
The CIS program is great place for me to come to relieve stress form day to day problems that I have faced at home and school. The CIS program provides us with a quiet place to study and get assistance with our homework. We are give opportunities here at the CIS program as we attend educational fieldtrips to broaden our minds to bigger and better things. The youth development leaders are very helpful. They are concerned about our education and future. They encourage us to do the best we can to achiever our goals that we set forth.
It’s good to know that I have somewhere to go afterschool, instead of hanging out in the streets with people who don’t have my best interest at heart. The CIS staff cares about us. They take out time to educate us on life. They teach about drugs and the effects it could have on our life. We discuss abstinence and the importance of waiting before you have sex. Not only do they teach us about many harmful STDs that out there in the world, they really work hard on making sure we make the right choices in life.
The CIS program is a great place that offers opportunities and new experiences. I have met new people and friends who are involved with our community. I am glad to be a part of a program which helps you strive for the best. Thanks to everyone here at the CIS program, you all are my guardian angels.
I would like to end my essay with this; I am not defined by stereotypes. I am so great, beautiful, wonderful, and talented. There is no single word, phrase, or statement that can summarize my greatness. The CIS program has taught me this affirmation, and this is why CIS means so much to me.