Santee Education Complex student Malyq Clark is an active, talented, and focused young man whom CISLA has had the pleasure to watch grow despite societal barriers in his path.     

When he first joined CISLA in 10th grade, Malyq expressed his challenge to maintain a 3.0-grade point average. For many students, dipping below a 3.0-grade point average would be acceptable, but not for him.   Malyq's  commitment to excellence academically parallels his dedication on both the football and baseball fields, where he plays defensive end, catcher, first base, and center field.  He is also a Senior Ambassador and a B.A.M. (Becoming a Man) Program member.   

Balancing his schedule proved to be more than he could handle, and CISLA was happy to provide the structure and support to help him achieve his goals.  After getting to know Malyq and understanding his needs through our one-on-one case management support, his site director created a game plan to help him get back on track and reach his goal of getting above a 3.0-grade point average.     

During his 11th-grade year, Malyq was selected for the Global Citizens Initiative (GCI) Scholarship. The 10-month fellowship prepares students to become global citizens equipped with the mindset, skills, and resources necessary to become effective and ethical global leaders. It includes a trip to Scotland, where fellows from around the world meet to discuss solutions to societal problems in their respective countries.  

​While on the trip to St Andrews, Scotland, he chose to tackle the issue of homelessness and find ways to provide winter shelter for those experiencing homelessness.    

Malyq started to attend morning and after-school tutoring sessions to get help with his homework. Recognizing his demanding academic and extracurricular schedule, CISLA set up meetings with his teachers to determine a plan for him to turn in assignments.   

As his grades improved, Malyq had more time to explore his passion for firefighting. With the help of his CISLA site director, he attended youth fire camps. He also enrolled in classes to earn his Emergency Medical Technician (E.M.T.) certificate – a mandatory training to become a firefighter.     

Upon returning to the States, Malyq took his ideas to tackle homelessness to the streets, literally. He and his friends started a fundraising effort called "Support on Wheels" to provide basic needs for people experiencing homelessness. They took the streets of Los Angeles on their skateboards and handed out 20 bags filled with clothing, toiletries, perishable food, and other essential items.    ​

In his senior year, Malyq continues to thrive academically.  As a result of his civic engagement and school involvement, he has received countless scholarships – preparing him financially to attend the college of his choice.  This 2023-2024 school year, Malyq Clark will attend Notre Dame College!  

​Malyq credits CISLA for supporting him through high school and spending time and listening to him to help him through difficulties inside and outside the classrooms. CISLA is still in awe of this young man's ability to persevere and demonstrate leadership and focus, despite personal challenges.    

CISLA is so excited for Malyq to experience the world and continue to excel. ​