Advot in Action

By: Annie Kee, Managing Director

September 2025

Student Artwork

It’s humbling to realize that even after nearly 20 years in this work (gulp), I can still be surprised by what happens in my classroom. This summer, I led programming at a particularly challenging site. The students were quiet, reticent, lethargic, disengaged. They were getting paid simply to show up, and support in the room was sporadic at best. Add to that hot summer days, morning classes, and two sessions in a row with 20 students each—it was a lot to manage.

Midway through the summer, my teammate Jarvis and I finally hit our rhythm. Routine is essential for learning—no matter the age of the student. When students know what to expect, they feel safe to engage. That’s just good teaching. So, we started each class with a group clap while standing, followed by a quick check-in. Then we’d head outside for some individual reflective art or writing before returning to the classroom for a share-out and final thoughts.

This structure gave students the freedom to relax and engage at their own pace—even just sitting with friends if that’s what they needed. It also created quiet space for reflection on choices, challenges, and future plans. Whether or not they shared their writing, the reflections were profound:

“I now know I can say I did this on my own.”

“[I’m] coming to better myself and being the man I was never thought of or raised to be.”

“What I’m doing now is learning how to do stuff right without it being a bad choice and learning how to cope with my trauma.”

“I am focusing on graduating high school and going to college. I hope to be an ultrasound tech.”

“I now know to make smarter moves and think about it before I act.”

Jarvis and I felt proud of the work we did, but the real impact became clear when we compiled anonymous student testimonials after the program was over: 

“I learned how to share my thoughts with others.”

“This program will pick you up at your lowest.”

“Life changing.”

“I would describe it as very different but very comforting. They let you come out and say how you feel. You also get to learn new things. But also get to share certain stories.”

“It helped me not be scared to ask for help and it's a fun place to be at.”

By creating a space where students felt safe to reflect, we made an impact—and hopefully, one that will last a long time.