From Setback to Success: Khaliq’s Story

At the end of Khaliq’s eighth-grade year, he was enjoying a typical summer evening with friends at a local basketball court when his life changed forever. Gunfire broke out on their walk home, striking Khaliq in the arm and leg. 

While the physical recovery was challenging, the emotional impact was more profound than Khaliq anticipated. The trauma affected his mental well-being, negatively impacting his school attendance and making his transition to high school feel nearly impossible. 

Khaliq faced more than just academic hurdles as he entered Reading High School. That’s when he was referred to Communities in Schools of Eastern PA and matched with a trusted mentor who truly listened and created space for him to process the events from the year before.

CIS became a safe space for Khaliq to explore and foster his resilience. With consistent mentorship, he successfully re-engaged with school, rebuilt his confidence and turned moments of self-doubt into a stronger belief in himself. Step by step, he found his footing and moved forward, even in the face of adversity. 

This spring, Khaliq graduated with his sights set on continuing his education after high school. In his years with CIS, he transformed from a student unsure of what his future could hold into one with a clear commitment to his personal growth. His journey is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when students are surrounded by unwavering support when they need it most. 

At CIS of Eastern PA, this is why our work matters: behind every student is a story still being written. With guidance from trusted mentors, our most vulnerable students can find their path toward a future full of promise.