Meet the Staff: Roderick Heath, Graduation Coach

What brought you to Communities In Schools of Durham?

Throughout my life I have always has a passion for helping at-risk youth. As a Graduation Coach, I will have the opportunity mode youth into successful young adults. Communities In Schools gives me the chance to work one-one with students and families case by case.

What drew you to this line of work?

Being a first generation college student myself helping people learn and think about new ideas makes my heart happy. The first time I mentored and tutored someone in a remedial math class and they said, "Is it really that easy?" I knew I had found my calling because it really wasn't simple! I have chosen education, as a career because I believe that education is perhaps the most important function performed in our culture, or for that matter, any culture.

What are some of your proudest or happiest achievements at your school so far?

My proudest moments may not have looked spectacular from the outside, but I remember them vividly. They were times when a student surprised herself in discovering how smart she was. In one case, I remember an entire class muttering “ooooh” appreciatively after a usually-quiet student said something fabulously smart; after that, the student was off and running.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Outside of work, I mentor young adults 13-25. The purpose is to help them with overcoming barriers of educational and personal success, which will lead to lifestyles of self-sufficiency thus improving the community as a whole.

What are your goals for the next school semester?

Increase opportunities for youth to become productive citizens of the community through leadership training and skill development.