Ryan
The only child of a single mom, Ryan was struggling academically last year in 3rd grade. His teacher referred him to Faith Network’s Excel Reading Clinic where he was paired with a volunteer tutor.  They worked one-on-one through the year, and Ryan made impressive gains. His English-Language Arts score improved 42 points on the California State Standards Test. In a recent conversation with Ryan’s mom, she expressed gratefulness for the support given to her son. She went on to say that Ryan now enjoys going to the library and checking out chapter books – and he loves insects, reptiles and animals of all sorts! We are proud of Ryan’s progress and accomplishments.

Edwin
While on the playground last Friday I asked Edwin what he liked best about Mission Springs science camp. He said, “Everything.” “Great, now tell me the most important thing you learned.” “I learned two important things: that the food was good, and I learned about Sudden Oak Death.” “Edwin, do you have a computer at home?” “No, but I go to the computer center at Eastmont Mall to learn more about Sudden Oak Death and how I might find a cure.” You go Edwin!

Last July at Family Camp, Mission Springs Executive Director Bryan Hayes share the story of Edwin’s new interest in the natural sciences, his quest of a cure for Sudden Oak Death, and his many trips to the computer center. Afterwards a man visiting from Texas came up to Bryan and said he wanted to do something to help Edwin, namely, give him his own computer so that he can continue his research at home.

On October 5 a new Dell computer, flat screen and printer was officially presented to Edwin at Frick Middle School. Needless to say, Edwin was one happy camper!