Edgren students soar to success Published March 11, 2013 By Staff Sgt. April Quintanilla 35th Fighter Wing MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- -- Struggling middle and high school students here have been given the opportunity to improve their grades for over 11 years with help from Edgren's Soaring to Success tutoring program. At Robert D. Edgren High School, the ESS program is primarily supported by volunteer active-duty Air Force members. Thanks to the dedication of the volunteers, the program has helped students' improve their grades and maintain the higher grade. "Being a part of the success of our youth is an invaluable experience that goes far beyond any tangible reward that could ever be given," said Airman 1st Class Matthew Wilson, 373rd Support Squadron mission systems support technician. "Helping our children realize their potential not only creates more opportunity for them, but it is also builds the strength of our nation." Some schools may have students who struggle to keep their grades up, and Edgren High School is no different. But the ESS program volunteers help students work to reduce stress and build confidence by explaining their assignments to them and assisting them until the students are able to work alone. "I have been coming to ESS for over two months and have raised my low grades to high B's," said Marrisa Dickerson, Edgren High School student. "By attending this program, I have been able to soar to great heights, and I would encourage others who are struggling with their grades to come by and check it out." The program is held in Edgren's library and is open to all students needing help with projects, homework, finding and using internet resources, reading or even mentoring every Tuesday and Thursday of each month from 3 to 4 p.m. "I would advise anyone wanting to volunteer with ESS to please have a good understanding of the field," said Cristina Minton, Robert D. Edgren High School teacher. "The students that come here usually need help in math and science, but some just want to sit with someone and read a good book." Parents who have children with a failing grade who may be frustrated with academics should encourage them to attend a tutoring session. Students have greatly benefited from the ESS tutoring program, some have even doubled their grade point averages. "This program has been a big success thanks to the military volunteers, primarily those from the 35th Civil Engineer Squadron," said Minton. If you are looking to volunteer in the program contact Minton at 226-3429 or 4377.