The West Point Association of Graduates, in partnership with the Highland Falls Intermediate School (HFIS) and the Fort Montgomery Central School District (FMCSD), launched CONNECT, an after-school program that provides HFIS students with high-quality experiences that support academics and interests, on Feb. 1.
The intent is to create the capability for students to learn and apply their learning in real-world contexts that are exciting and fun.
The theme of the initial CONNECT session was health, fitness and discipline.
West Point cadets participated as mentors and discussed nutrition, instructed volleyball and team handball skills, and lead students in activities.
Mick Hauser, the director of Alumni Support Initiatives at West Point AOG said, “CONNECT combines the expertise of professional educators from the Highland Falls Intermediate School, assistance from the community to include parents, and the kind support of USMA alumni in an after-school program characterized by individual student attention, adult and youth mentors, nutritional support, and physical activity.”
Todd Browne, chief executive officer and president of the WPAOG, mentioned how enhancing educational opportunities for local children should have a direct positive effect on the community.
“Schools are the heart of any community and working with (HFIS principal) Yashira Maldonado and her staff has been amazing,ˮ Browne said.
Class of 2022 Cadet Seth Bolden felt that going to HFIS was an amazing experience that reminded him why he went to West Point.
“We do not have to wait until we deploy to make an impact. We can affect positive change in the communities right outside our gates,ˮ Bolden said. “The HFIS kids seemed genuinely happy that we were there and loved playing with us. I am glad that I could help bring happiness to that community and I am definitely going to try to maintain this impact into the future.”
On March 3, the CONNECT program will expand to a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) curriculum with an aviation session studying flying drones.