Anais Martinez

Broughal Middle supports a range of programs—from tutoring and mentoring to arts and music enrichment. Can you share a story where one of these programs made a meaningful difference for a student?

One student who stands out joined our Creative Writing Club and wrote a short story called Roach, about an apocalyptic cockroach surviving in a world after humans disappeared. At first, they were hesitant to share their work, but as they developed the story week by week, you could see them come alive with excitement and purpose. Writing became an outlet to process big ideas in a way that felt safe and empowering. What started as an after-school club turned into a space for self-expression, critical thinking, and confidence-building. Programs like this remind me that when students are given space to be imaginative and heard, they find powerful ways to understand themselves and the world around them.

How do you balance the urgent needs students may face—like food or clothing—with longer-term growth opportunities like leadership or literacy programs?

At Broughal, we take a holistic approach to student support because we know that learning can’t happen if basic needs aren’t met. Before we talk about leadership or literacy, we have to make sure students are fed, clothed, and cared for. That means having a school pantry, clothing drives, hygiene kits, and strong partnerships with community organizations that help us respond to housing or food insecurity. When a student walks through the door hungry or worried about what’s going on at home, we respond right away. That kind of immediate support isn’t an extra, it’s foundational. And when students know they’re safe and supported, they’re more open to everything else we offer. That’s when they’ll stay for tutoring, join a club, or open up about what they’re passionate about. And families? They start showing up too, at workshops, at school events, or just reaching out when they need help. That’s when the real magic of a community school happens. Meeting urgent needs and supporting long-term growth go hand in hand.

Lehigh University supports this work through the Community Service Office, serving as the Lead Partner. How have you seen Lehigh’s presence and partnership contribute to the success of your school?

Lehigh University’s partnership through the Community Service Office has played a huge role in our school’s success. They bring more than just volunteers, they bring energy, consistency, and a shared commitment to youth development. Their students and staff have helped lead tutoring, enrichment programs, and service-learning projects that bring real-world learning into our building. Because of Lehigh, our students are connecting with mentors, exploring college pathways, and engaging in experiences that push their thinking. Their commitment to positive social change has inspired our school community and helped strengthen the foundation for both academic and social-emotional growth.

What has the partnership with Lehigh students, faculty, or staff brought to the table that might not have been possible otherwise?

What Lehigh students, faculty, and staff bring to the table is something truly special. Their presence has helped us bridge the gap between ideas and action. Whether it’s designing innovative programs, supporting events, or simply being there for our students, they’ve deepened our capacity and sense of community. Without that partnership, a lot of the opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and meaningful engagement wouldn’t have been possible. Their support helps us dream bigger and do more.

Looking ahead, what are some hopes you have for continuing to grow the community school model—and how might Lehigh or other partners play a role in that?

I hope we continue to grow the community school model into something even more rooted in resilience, wellness, and collective care. I see schools as hubs where families, students, and partners come together not just for academics, but for connection and growth. To do that, we need to keep building strong, authentic partnerships. Lehigh and other organizations are key to that vision. Their support in areas like mental health, STEM, family engagement, and educator development can help us create more wraparound services that meet real needs. I’m excited about what we can build together, systems that are inclusive, sustainable, and centered on equity. When we move together, we create communities where every student is truly seen and supported, inside and outside the classroom.