The Secondary School program started in September 2006 and so far this school year, the eight staffers have worked with more than 100 seventh- through twelfth- graders. The program runs Monday through Saturday – weekdays, after-school until 7 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All week, professionals from the community with expertise in various subjects tutor students. The after-school program offers a wide range of activities:

• On Mondays, there’s a college prep class with both SAT prep classes and sessions on college applications, writing strong essays, applying for financial aid, even dorm life.
• On Mondays, there’s also a Leadership and Resiliency Group aimed at preventing substance abuse and violence. Some recent immigrant students struggle with English, so these sessions are held in Chinese so students feel more comfortable. There are three main components: weekly discussion groups to talk about pressing issues, such as the Virginia Tech shooting, or family issues. “This is the space for them to talk about teen issues,” says Hao. “It fits their needs.” Other components are monthly activities, such as rock climbing and fishing, and community service.
• On Tuesdays, the Youth Council meets. The 20 members of the Youth Council are involved in planning their program, including interviewing potential staff, designing the summer program, choosing workshop topics and recreational activities. Youth elect two members to serve on AA LEAD’s board. “They tell us what they want to have,” says Hao.
• On Wednesdays, enrichment workshops selected by youth are held, such as cooking classes, yoga, dance and financial education, taught by Capitol One.
• On Thursdays, an English-language Leadership and Resiliency Group meets as does a fun, interactive English as a Second Language class. Also on Thursday afternoons, a SAT/college prep class is offered at Wilson Senior High School.
• On Fridays, separate guys’ and girls’ groups meet, again with youth deciding the activities. Girls pick activities that appeal to them, such as arts and crafts, knitting and jewelry-making. The guys enjoy basketball.
• One Saturday a month, the young people select special field trips, such as bowling, billiards and a ropes course.

Some students come five days a week; some, fewer days. A six-week summer program – featuring filmmaking, camping, English and college and career preparation classes, tennis, and other activities, is set to start in June for 40 students. Hao has watched her students build confidence. “Being part of their lives is definitely very rewarding,” says Hao. “They are wonderful students.”