Jaron Bell (SEED DC ’04, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University ’11)
My mother found SEED because she wanted something better for me. I had a negative outlook on teachers and education after getting kicked out of multiple schools. So, at eleven years old—and despite my resistance—I was enrolled at SEED.
While at SEED, I was pushed academically and socially. They helped me discover a love for reading, history, and science. They took us on retreats to places such as West Virginia to develop social skills like leadership and team building. As members of the Student Government Association, we gained analytical skills by visiting other boarding schools to determine if any components should be implemented at SEED.
The adults that we were surrounded by were key to the success of me and my peers—and to SEED’s success. We knew they were invested in us and wanted to see us prosper. Mr. Lloyd served as a father figure for me. Mr. Rubenstein, Mr. Williams, and Mr. Tamiyo made learning fun and engaging. And Ms. Brynlee took me from a kid who struggled with reading to a confident learner who sought more books to read. I know that SEED has one of the best educational programs in our country.
After I graduated from SEED, I enrolled at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. As a freshman, I was ahead of my classmates because of the academic rigor that SEED provided. I also had members of the SEED community—from peers to counselors—there to support me. The SEED community stuck with me when challenges arose that forced me to stop out of school. My commitment to not quit coupled with their encouragement and motivation led me to reenroll and to finish my degree in social work.
I love SEED. Beyond academics, I gained a family. Despite my initial reluctance, I know that my mother made the right decision for me. So many of my friends I knew growing up who didn’t finish school are either in jail or no longer with us. Without the safe environment provided by SEED, I am not sure where I would be. Today, I am focused on being a good father and on developing an afterschool program for young Black and Brown men. I hope to be a good role model to these young men and to provide them with a positive outlet.
As I approach 20 years since my SEED graduation, I appreciate my experiences—many of which continue to guide me today. I am proud to see that SEED has stuck to its mission and that many more students across the country will also benefit from SEED’s programming.