Written Word (H.S.) Grand Prize Finalist- Courtney

A Two Minute Radio Public Service Announcement

Have you met David? He is a student, well loved by both his teachers and peers, quarterback of his football team, and proud coach of a little league team that he once played on. His GPA: 2.7.

How about Mandy? She was on a Level 9 competitive gymnastics team at age twelve. She loves writing poetry and is a Key Club member. Her GPA is a 3.2.

Have you met Eddie? He is a rather quiet but average student, an avid computer gamer and band member who tutors ESL students and helps out in other areas. He scored a 1340 on his SAT.

Do you know Cat? She is ASB President, MVP of her soccer team, and an outgoing student who always has an open ear for friends who need to talk. She volunteers at the local rest home. Her GPA is 3.4.

Danny lives across town. He is a people person and his family's full time cook. He drove before legal age to take his younger siblings to school and to the doctor. His Mom works two jobs and part time at a third when she can. Danny has a 3.0 GPA.

Have you met Lizzy? She is sweet girl, an only child, and a CSF lifetime member. She would be the first generation in her family to go to college. Her GPA is an amazing 4.7.

All of these students have potential yet don't meet all critera for automatic acceptance into college. Dave could become a teacher or coach, Amanda an author, Edward an engineer, Katherine a doctor, Daniel a political leader or police officer, and Elizabeth, a chemist. Don't all these students deserve a spot in college? These are your kids, neighbors, friends, and your future. The population of high school graduates in California is increasing while the capacity of community colleges and universities is not growing at the same rate, causing many eligible students to be refused. With 83% of the 30 fastest growing occupations requiring some type of college degree the importance of being accepted into college is greater than ever. These students hold new ideas and understandings, and can make valuable contributions to our state. Imagine what can be accomplished and solved if we gave every one of these students a chance. Why should California leaders save the students that will shape your future a spot in college? The question is why shouldn't they!!