Program shines a light of guidance

PITTSBURGH - Richardo Grimsley, a sophomore at Pittsburgh Westinghouse High School in Homewood, said he sometimes thought about writing poetry but didn't put pen to paper until a new after-school program debuted in October.

So far, he has written 20 poems, including "Fantasy," about his childhood dreams, and "Get Up," about his struggles with adversity. He's also refurbishing a bicycle through the program.

Called the Lighthouse Project, the program represents the Pittsburgh public schools' first efforts to create "community" or "full-service" schools that go beyond education to focus on students' health and welfare.

Many community schools serve adults, too.

They often stay open well into the evening, providing a range of social services to lift individuals, mend families and revitalize neighborhoods. "Get Up" could be the schools' theme.

While the definition of a community school varies, the concept has taken root in cities nationwide, with officials recognizing that what happens outside school affects children's performance in the classroom. The schools rely on businesses and neighborhood groups for help.

Pittsburgh officials are incorporating the concept into Superintendent Mark Roosevelt's plans to turn around failing schools. The district may replicate the Lighthouse Project in other troubled neighborhoods.

"When I'm stressed or I'm mad, it helps me get through the day," Richardo said of the program. "It calms me down."

With a contract of about $300,000, the Homewood-Brushton YMCA launched the project with classes in poetry, dance, music production and visual arts, all designed to broaden Westinghouse students' horizons.

While Richardo worked on poetry, other students printed T-shirts with a Lighthouse Project logo, painted murals and practiced "stepping," the dance style highlighted in the movie

Stomp the Yard.

The program also includes guest speakers and field trips.