Grace Quaye
Kayla Rodriguez
Athlete scholars at the Charter School of Educational Excellence (CSEE) are not only excelling on the courts, but also in their preparation for adulthood.
With a robust sports program encompassing 21 teams across middle and high school, students are learning significant life lessons.
Grace Quaye, an eleventh grader, said the CSEE and its sports programs helped her develop poise under pressure.
“Patience is important. The way you react gives a lasting impression. If you’re in the middle of a game and you don’t react the right way, people will look at you and think, ‘Oh, she has a bad temper.’ If you control yourself, people understand that you are a team player and that you know how to keep your composure,” said Quaye, who has played on the high school’s volleyball, basketball, and softball teams.
Kayla Rodriguez found inspiration in her father’s love for sports. Through softball and volleyball, she has learned to navigate life’s challenges.
“Resilience is key to getting through anything,” said Rodriguez. “You learn a lot about yourself by getting through what you got to get through.”
The CSEE recognizes the holistic benefits of athletic participation, offering sports programs that include soccer, basketball, baseball, cheerleading, and track. With opportunities spanning fall, winter, and spring seasons, students have the chance to explore their interests and develop teamwork, leadership, and time management.
Beyond physical fitness, sports fuel personal growth and character development. Athletes learn to set goals and push their limits– skills that are valuable in college, careers, and adulthood.
The school’s sports programs also help students gain a foothold in higher education through scholarships. In June, the CSEE’s high school graduated its first senior class with a graduation rate of 96.5 percent and an estimated $7.5 million in college scholarships. Members of the Class of 2023 accepted offers from the country’s most prestigious universities, including Cornell University, New York University and Boston University.
By balancing academic rigor with athletic pursuits, students at the Charter School of Educational Excellence are not only excelling academically but also cultivating the resilience, discipline, and leadership qualities necessary for success in all facets of life.
