YOMAR

Yomar joined UCC’s Bruce-Guadalupe Community School as a third grader after moving to Milwaukee from Puerto Rico. At the time, he faced significant academic challenges. His Forward Exam scores, a state-level measure of academic achievement, were well below the national average, placing him at just the 3rd percentile for reading and the 6th percentile for math. For many students, starting so far behind could be discouraging, but Yomar was ready to grow, and UCC’s comprehensive supports were ready to help him. 

Through targeted interventions, including English Language Learner (ELL) support, individualized homework help, personal counseling, and the After-School Achievement Program, Yomar began building skills and confidence. Teachers worked closely with him to provide structured guidance, patient one-on-one support, and firm, consistent expectations that encouraged focus and engagement. These efforts helped Yomar get on track academically and develop stronger self-regulation skills. 

Over the last five years, Yomar has shown steady, meaningful progress. On the Forward Exam, his reading and math scores have climbed year-after-year. Now an 8th grader, his Measures of Academic Progress scores tell a similar story: his reading scores have reached the average range, in math he is scoring slightly above average, and in science he is above the expected level for his grade!  

Beyond numbers, Yomar has grown in his ability to engage with peers, participate in class, and take initiative in his learning. He maintains strong connections with teachers and often checks in with staff he worked with in previous grades, a sign of the trusting relationships he’s built at UCC. 

Yomar’s story demonstrates how UCC’s wraparound supports and individualized programming can help students overcome early academic struggles and build a foundation for continued success. After five years at UCC schools, Yomar is prepared for high school and poised to continue growing academically, socially, and personally - thanks to the skills and confidence nurtured during his time at UCC.