What's the biggest comeback story you can imagine? At In School, we think of Posseh Kamara — a bright and determined 15-year-old from Sierra Leone.
Posseh didn’t just overcome the odds to graduate from primary school this year. She earned the title “Student of the Year”!
Posseh receives the Student of the Year award
Cash assistance keeps girls like Posseh In School
Last year, her teacher described her as “the saddest child” at her school, and Posseh had many reasons to be sad. She lost both her parents at a young age. She has gone hungry for days and weeks on end. She was forced into child labor just to afford a meal. And she fell behind in school because she did not have the energy, the time or the supplies to attend regularly.
But this year — thanks to the kind donors who make In School possible — Posseh got the chance to live like a normal teen. Through the monthly cash transfer she received from In School, she had enough food to eat without having to sell water on the street. That meant she could go to school every day, with enough energy to study and laugh with her friends.
Posseh took advantage of her opportunity
This year, Posseh did everything she could to make up for lost time in the classroom. Thanks to her hard work and determination, Posseh’s teacher nominated her to receive the “Student of the Year” award at graduation.
This award is competitive and requires a well-rounded student. Here are the criteria her teacher shared with us:
- Academic Excellence
Maintains consistently high grades in all subjects. Shows strong understanding and interest in lessons. Regularly completes assignments, homework and projects on time. - Good Behavior and Discipline
Shows respect to teachers, school staff, and fellow pupils. Follows school rules and sets a good example for others. Maintains self-control, humility and politeness. - Leadership and Responsibility
Takes leadership roles in class or school activities (class monitor, club leader, etc.). Helps organize or lead group work, school programs or community events. Takes responsibility for their actions and helps solve problems. - Teamwork and Cooperation
Works well with others and contributes to group success. Shows kindness, fairness and support to classmates. Helps weaker students without being asked. - Participation in School Activities
Actively takes part in extracurricular activities (sports, debates, drama, clubs). Represents the school in competitions and does well. Shows school spirit and pride. - Creativity and Innovation
Demonstrates original thinking in class projects or presentations. Shows talents in arts, music, writing or other creative areas. Comes up with helpful or interesting ideas to improve the class/school. - Good Attitude and Personal Values
Is honest, trustworthy and responsible. Shows empathy, compassion and good manners. Is determined and hardworking, even in difficult times. - Attendance and Punctuality
Rarely absent or late to school. Participates fully in all school days and activities. - Community Involvement
Participates in helpful projects at school or in the local community.