Tatiana Palmer has her heart set on becoming a pediatric registered nurse. With the support of her Community School, she knows she will reach that goal, and many others.
Tatiana is a senior at South Philadelphia High School, which is one of the City’s 12 Community Schools. Like many high school students, Tatina’s high school career began as she navigated her transition of becoming a young adult, unsure of what she’d like to study, and stressed by the many decisions surrounding her.
Now, every time she walks into the building, she enjoys the anticipation of learning something new. Tatiana chose to enroll in the school’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, in the Health Related Technology (HRT) track. That’s thanks to the help of people like Community Schools Coordinator Janelle Harper motivating her to follow her dreams.
That’s exactly what Tatinana is doing. Her classes are now providing her with exposure to clinical laboratory procedures, the ethical side of healthcare, and procedures for infection control.
She says she is thankful that Janelle reached out to her early on, and helped her navigate the stress of deciding which high school path she would take. Tatiana recalls one of the best pieces of advice that Janelle gave her: to keep her head held high.
Tatiana has since helped Janelle organize the school’s community closet where students and community members can access free clothing and necessities that they need. She enjoys providing a helping hand whenever she can because she loves the feeling of being connected to her community, and helping others. Tatiana also serves on the Rams Committee, the senior class committee that helps plan student events, and is the voice of SPHS students in certain school leadership meetings.
School counselor Tamika Jones, has also been an important figure in guiding Tatiana through her high school career. Tatiana says that Janelle and Tamika have been like mothers to her. “I really appreciate the both of them,” she says. “They have impacted my experience by making me a better and bigger person.”
Since connecting with Janelle and Tamika, Tatiana has felt a greater sense of comfort and community at her school. She knows there are plenty of resources for her to access, and she doesn’t hesitate to seek out advice and support.
School staff are not the only source of community at South Philadelphia High. Tatiana says that she also enjoys participating in cheerleading, especially because her team is patient and encouraging.
Tatiana recognizes how many individuals have helped her succeed, and she wants to do the same for others. This lesson, along with the other’s she’s learned at school, we’re proud that she’ll carry with her after graduation.
“I enjoy giving back when I’m available to do so,” she says. “I love helping people.”
We look forward to watching your continued success, Tatiana!
