Student Spotlight: Hakeem

The Juvenile Court and Community Schools student representative on the San Diego County Board of Education for July was Hakeem, a sophomore at 37ECB.

Principal Gretchen Rhoads said that Hakeem is a remarkable young man who is full of wonder and is always asking questions to learn about the world around him.

“He has already won the hearts of half the crowd here with his incredible personality and his ability to communicate thoughtfully and deeply,” Rhoads said at the board meeting recognizing Hakeem. “He is a resident of the Center for Positive Change and has been able to rise above and thrive through adversity and trauma. He has clear direction and works hard to accomplish his goals.”

Hakeem is looking toward the future with aspirations to become an entrepreneur with his own clothing line one day. 

Hakeem said he likes 37ECB because it has a diverse community, helpful teachers, and provides individual attention. 

“They taught me to be a better entrepreneur, and they supported me academically and emotionally,” he said. 

His advice to other students: Be a leader, stay focused, and get the job done. 

“Hakeem is just a delight and cracks me up,” Rhoads shared. “He’s the real deal. His brilliance shines brightly now and it will shine into the future.” 

Each month, the San Diego County Board of Education recognizes a student from Juvenile Court and Community Schools at its regular meeting.