BGHS and Restoration Forge New Partnership

In its efforts to improve literacy and provide a network of support for Bed-Stuy’s future leaders, Restoration is partnering with l to share its resources and expertise in arming BGHS students with the tools and information necessary to prepare them for adulthood, college and future employment.

Over the past ten years, Boys and Girls High School, an historic institution in the Bed-Stuy community, has struggled with its graduation rate and student academic performance, making it a target for possible closure. Under the leadership of its new Principal Bernard Gassaway, over the last two years, the school .

Gassaway earlier this year , insisting the money was set aside for an improvement model that would be inneffective at his school. Additionally, he has openly criticized the practice of mandating the money be used on third-party professional development corporations who are out of touch with the needs of his students.

This past spring, Gassaway began meeting with BSRC CEO Colvin Grannum. Gassaway has taken a bold step toward creating his own partnerhsip organizations for BGHS-- through the relationships he has forged right here in the community.

"In order to address the needs of the children, we must begin to address the needs of the families. What impacts them at home is felt in the schools,” said Gassaway. “Bedford Stuyvesant Restoration will be instrumental in providing wraparound services to children and families. We embrace the community school concept.  We are hopeful that this partnership will be long-lasting and meaningful."

The CARE centerlocated on the first floor of BGHS, has been established to provide space to BSRC partners in key areas, such as tutoring, mental health services, conflict resolution, college access, job training, career exploration, financial counseling, benefits screening and other services for families.

“The school has welcomed us and has opened its doors to the partners by providing space for services and identifying key school staff to facilitate our work with students,” said Colvin Grannum.

“Restoration is providing three distinct services to BGHS. First, we are ensuring that the school community has complete access to our wrap around services including benefits screening, food stamps, legal services and financial counseling by offering on site Restoration registration. 

“Second, for the students who are seeking employment and/or internships, our job readiness trainer is providing a 10 hour job readiness class. The class is the same one we offer each day at Restoration for adults seeking employment. Third, for the college bound juniors and seniors, we are providing a College Access program that includes college readiness, financial aid counseling and SAT preparation. 

Currently, BSRC has 45 seniors enrolled in its College Access program, where they receive one-on-one counseling in selecting the right college. Also, the new partnership has completed its first job readiness class of 23 students who either will be placed in an internship or begin their job search.

“We are excited and optimistic about the work of Principal Gassaway and the energy the partners are bringing to the school,” said Grannum. “A great year lies ahead.”