College program enables residents to continue academic success

Lindy Dehm, coordinator of the college and vocational program at Methodist Children's Home, always begins the new year with mixed emotions. In January, Mrs. Dehm and other child care staff finalize their list of high school seniors who are eligible for college scholarships.

"January is the worst month because we have to make decisions about the future plans of our seniors," she said. "It can be a gut-wrenching experience."

Residents who graduate from high school while under the care of the Home are eligible to apply for MCH scholarships. For many residents, attending college or a vocational program is a natural progression. For residents who are not interested in college or who would likely struggle to succeed, Mrs. Dehm works to find alternatives.

"It is our responsibility to help students determine what options are in their best interests," she said. "We must put them in an environment where they can succeed."

In recent years, the decision process has become less stressful. During the past two years, 46 residents have graduated from high school, 40 of whom earned MCH scholarships. From 1998-2002, a total of 29 out of 49 high school graduates attended college. The majority of residents who graduated from high school and moved on to college during the past two years began their residency in the Home's structured care program. For many, failure in school was the primary reason they were admitted to the Home.

"I believe our numbers reflect the success of our program of care," Mrs. Dehm said. "Many of our kids would not have been able to graduate from high school, much less attend college, if they did not come to Methodist Children's Home."

To ensure the best decision is made for students, Mrs. Dehm closely monitors their academic progress throughout high school and maintains close communication with caseworkers, homeparents and other staff.

Mrs. Dehm requires juniors to complete vocational and interest inventories and assists students in their research about college programs and career opportunities. She also arranges for students to make personal visits to college campuses and requires that they talk with current MCH college students. She ensures they take college entrance exams and helps them through the admissions process. Effective communication is critical.

"We talk with students about the realities of what they'll experience in college," she said. "They are preparing to make a huge transition and it's our job to help them understand what that means."

Once students are accepted into a college or vocational program, Mrs. Dehm helps lay the groundwork for their move. She maps out summer plans, helps students move into their dorms or apartments and provides assistance as they set up bank accounts, telephone service and purchase textbooks and supplies, along with a myriad of other responsibilities. Throughout the year, Mrs. Dehm makes sure residents are on track with their degree plans and takes frequent trips to meet with students on their college campuses.

"Lindy does a great job working with these students," said Dr. Dan Jackson, director of educational services. "She cares for these kids and does everything in her power to make sure their needs are met."

From the time she begins working with students during their junior year of high school, Mrs. Dehm places great importance on developing relationships of trust and understanding.

"The most rewarding part of this job is that I am able to see the end result as I follow students from start to finish," she said. "I enjoy keeping up with them after they graduate and begin their careers. It's fulfilling to hear them say, 'Now I understand what Methodist Children's Home did for me.'"

This article appeared in the Summer 2004 issue of Sunshine. Methodist Children's Home, Waco, Texas