STRIVE stands for Students taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education.

STRIVE Mission:
To Challenge, motivate, and reward East Jordan High School seniors students who have the greatest opportunity for academic improvement with the assistance of a mentor!

Program Overview:
Students who participate in the STRIVE Program are selected by the school and are matched with an adult mentor. Mentors can be either Rotarians or non-Rotarians from the community. Mentors are not tutors but are there to offer support, encouragement, and assistance. Students and mentors meet in a group setting once a week during school hours. A STRIVE program coordinator is available for guidance during each mentoring session.

The program rewards participants’ hard work and success in attaining these goals. STRIVE also provides the opportunity to improve academic
and life skills, that include but not limited to such skills as time management, study skills, use of a planner, sleep hygiene, the importance of a diploma, communication skills, being persistent, test-taking skills, first impressions, how to shake hands. STRIVE also provides students with the opportunity to connect and bond with many adults in their community…letting them know their community cares about their success.

STRIVE History:
STRIVE has been a collaboration between East Jordan Rotary Club and East Jordan Schools since 1998. STRIVE stands for Students taking a Renewed Interest in the Value of Education. Students in the lower one-third of the class often have the same natural abilities and gifts as those in the upper two-thirds of the class. The difference is often a support system for motivation, attendance, work habits, self-esteem, and success in the classroom. STRIVE is one way to address all of these factors. Statistically, 75-80% of those who made the commitment to STRIVE criteria improved their GPA. These students had a 91% attendance average. They knew that the school and the community were pulling with them and for them!
STRIVE is a proven way to make a difference in the performance of students. School leaders and teachers pointed to a notable improvement in increased self-esteem, confidence, and motivation. Many students discovered that when they improved their skills, attended class, and worked a little harder they found success. This increased their workplace success and some students even make the decision to go on to college.