Peace Corps
Throughout the academic year, youth are “matched” to a region in the world, a type of program (e.g., agriculture, business, education, health, environment), and even a specific Peace Corps volunteer. High Achievers, along with GC leaders, engage in discussions with their Peace Corps volunteers across the globe. There are 169 schools in Georgia participate in the World Wise Schools partnership program; however, the High Achievers Program is the only afterschool program to do so.
In 2009, the High Achievers were invited to the Lillian Carter Awards Ceremony at the Carter Center. For the first time ever, youth invite to attend were asked to write essays about public service. These essays were then judged by Peace Corps personnel, and one High Achiever, Willie Pearson, was chosen to speak to the entire crowd about what public service means to him. On that day in May 2009 at the Carter Center, speakers included the moderator of the program, Jody Olsen the Director of the Peace Corps, President Carter, the winner of the Lillian Carter Award, and our Willie Pearson. It was a proud day for Milledgeville and perhaps one of the most memorable events of the program.
The Peace Corp component also helps to prepare youth for the spring break and summer camps. Youth use the different regions they learn about during Peace Corp component to create activities and learning activities for youth at the camps. Because the camps are globally themed, the Peace Corp component is essential in providing the foundation for learning.
The High Achievers Program
Georgia College & State University
Campus Box 075 | Milledgeville, GA 31061
Phone (478) 445-5613; Fax (478) 445-0147
