WEST PALM BEACH, FL -- Thirteen year old Patricia Martinez and her classmates at Palm Beach Maritime Academy say they excel in class because of an after-school program called 'CHAMPS.' "It's basically like a big family. Like any problem you have you can go to them, they will help you."
CHAMPS is geared towards teens, helping them when they need it the most.
Joseph Russo designed the program. "We are providing a structure for the moral, social and character building of the students to lay a foundation down for them so as they progress through high school or in college or just in life we have given them the foundation now in middle school to get them started."
Russo says CHAMPS, which meets once a week, is for 7th and 8th graders. "Because I saw opportunities with students where they weren't necessarily achieving in academics but they possessed skills that be harnessed," Russo says.
He says part of the program is creating a family environment.
"I would love to see them all become leaders but I would like for them more to see what they are capable of doing for themselves. To look within themselves, and realize that they don't have to accept when somebody says you can't do something because you can do something," Russo explains.
Even though the program was started last year, it's already making a difference.
Student Christopher Lopez says, "It motivated me. Whenever I would stop by Mrs. Swenson's office she would ask, are you working on those A's and I would say yes."
Patricia Martinez loves the program also. "They always give you something like a gift card, or like a little prize if you get good grades and it's really cool."
Palm Beach Maritime Academy7719 South Dixie Highway
West Palm Beach
561-547-3775
