Testimony to the Black and Latino Caucus

Shian Earlington
Hello. My name is Shian Earlington and I am a proud eighth grader at Achievement First
Hartford Academy Middle School.
I know that some of you might be thinking okay, what does this thirteen year old kid
really have to tell us about charter schools, what can she really share.
RepresentativesSenators, I can tell you, without any doubt, that Achievement First
Hartford Academy is one of the best things to ever happen to me.
Hartford Academy is the best school Ive ever been in. My teachers are caring and strong,
and they work hard every day they work hard to ensure that Im prepared for the future
and can achieve my dreams.
Because of the hard work of my teachers, the creative and challenging assignments Im
given, and the high expectations set for me and my peers, Im succeeding at Achievement
First Hartford Academy.
My grades have improved since I came to Hartford Academy and Im more motivated
then Ive ever been to succeed. I cant imagine where Id be if I werent lucky enough to
be here. I can safely say that I feel ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.
Many kids from communities like mine dont believe that they can make it in life. By the
time a lot of them get to be my age theyve already given up on their dreams. Thats not
the case for me.
One day, I hope to become a doctor. I know that the education Im receiving at Hartford
Academy is preparing me to achieve that dream. Im fortunate to have this opportunity,
and I only wish that more students like me had the same access to a great school like
mine.
If you care about students like me, and believe that we deserve a great education, please,
support more charter schools for our state.
Thank you for your time.