• A sense of academic initiative. Many students lack a school work ethic, good study habits, and
a high level of self-discipline. Academic success is not perceived as relevant to their future lives.
• A sense of knowing. Many students do not have a sturdy foundation upon which to build success
in school. They do not have the opportunities to thrive, which include pre-school attendance,
travel, summer camps, home computers, tutors, music lessons, organized sports, exposure to the
arts, coaching for college admissions tests, and visits to colleges.
• A sense of connectedness. Many students feel alienated and do not have a sense of belonging
to their community, neighborhood, or school. To be successful in school, students must feel that
they “belong” and perceive the work of school as having great value. Connectedness also means
that students have good relationships with adults in the school, the home, and the neighborhood.
These adults can be advocates for students as they face barriers and problems in and out of school.