Stories of Growth: Samani

This is one of our many “Stories of Growth” in our latest Giving Tuesday Series.

Samani is known for his quiet demeanor, consistent effort, and regal smile. It was just six years ago that he found himself in kindergarten in the U.S., learning a brand new language and culture.

It was just six years ago that he found himself in kindergarten in the U.S., learning a brand new language and culture.

He slowly began picking it up as he started to attend SDRT regularly. Tutoring reinforced his academics, and he was exposed to American pastimes, such as bowling, horseback riding, and ice skating, through SDRT’s field trips.

We are thrilled to share that Samani was accepted to Preuss UCSD, a transformative high school with 90% of its graduates continuing on to 4-year universities. We have no doubt that he will continue to work hard and conquer new challenges with confidence.

San Diego Refugee Tutoring’s story is one of growth. Ten years ago, we tutored 10 kids once a week; today, we tutor 85 kids twice a week. But the greater story of growth is not our numbers but in our students themselves.

The kids who once avoided homework now eagerly come to tutoring seeking help. The ones who arrived in the US without knowing the English alphabet are now flying through chapter books. They come to tutoring and unfold their homework because they believe that they just might be able to do it. This growth in confidence cannot be quantified; it’s immeasurable. 

SDRT is the only accessible academic support for most of our kids. Will you partner with us so we can continue to provide this valuable support for each and every one of our students?

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Help kids get the dedicated and customized tutoring they need to succeed at San Diego Refugee Tutoring.

About Melissa Phillips

Melissa Phillips is one of the founders of San Diego Refugee Tutoring and currently serves as its Program Director. She has four incredible children, many years of teaching experience, and a supportive husband who also works in education.

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