AT&T contributed $10,000 to the Lake Washington Schools Foundation (LWSF) to support expansion of its LINKS Mentoring Program with a pilot program for junior high and high school students.

LINKS (Looking Into the Needs of Kids and Schools) utilizes volunteers who work one-on-one primarily with elementary students not performing at grade level. LINKS volunteers help with academic tutoring as well as meet with students weekly to increase their confidence in developing relationships with others.

“The program is designed to help academically at-risk students who need extra academic tutoring or mentoring from a caring adult,” said Doug Seto, executive director of the LWSF.  “This donation will help the District expand LINKS and provide academic assistance to improve the students’ chances for on-time high school graduation and success in college and the workforce.”

“When a student succeeds, we all benefit.  By working together, we can build a better community,” said Redmond Mayor John Marchione.  The City of Redmond also provides funding to LINKS through its Human Service grants.

“We are proud to support the great work being done by Lake Washington Schools,” said Dan Youmans, president of AT&T Washington.  “This complements our ongoing efforts to stem the high school dropout rate and prepare our youth for college or the workforce.” 

“By helping us extend the LINKS program into upper grade levels, AT&T is making a difference for students at a critical time,” noted Dr. Chip Kimball, LWSD Superintendent. “Students who connect to an adult who cares about their academic performance have a much better chance at succeeding.”

Presenting the
$10,000 Check: 

From left:
Doug Seto,
Executive Director Lake Washington Schools Foundation
Nanci Wehr,
LINKS Program Coordinator
John Marchione,
Redmond Mayor
Dan Youmans,
President External Affairs, AT&T Washington/Hawaii
Chip Kimball,
Superintendent Lake Washington School District
Claire Beighle,
Trustee, Lake Washington Schools Foundation & LINKS Liaison