Over the last FIVE years

308
Diplomas
8
k
Instruction Hours
120
k
Meals
350
New Donors
100
%
Budget Met
2026 Annual Report
A Road To Hope.
WSSS is a private alternative high school for at-risk youth in Greater Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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WSSS Celebrating 20 Years!
Melanie
Melanie, High School
For some students, the path to a diploma is anything but straightforward. For Melanie, it was shaped by hardship, resilience, and ultimately, transformation. Growing up in a home filled with conflict and instability, Melanie faced toxic family dynamics and an abusive relationship that pulled her away from school. Eventually, she was forced to leave the traditional system altogether, followed by a year marked by depression and self-doubt.

Then Melanie made a life-changing decision to try again. That choice led her to the Winston-Salem Street School, a place she now calls “a huge blessing.” The journey back wasn’t easy. Leaving an unhealthy relationship and rebuilding her confidence took courage. “The staff here helped me push through with how understanding and motivating they are,” she shared. With the support of caring teachers, mentors, and counselors, Melanie began to believe in herself again, and in December of 2026, she earned her diploma. She will participate in the graduation ceremony in May.

At the Street School, Melanie began to see college as a real and attainable goal. Today she is enrolled at Forsyth Tech and plans to attend law school in the future. Along the way, Melanie gained more than a high school diploma. She found purpose and direction. Being part of a supportive community which included staff, classmates, and meaningful volunteer opportunities helped her learn more about herself. “I definitely have way more opportunities with my diploma than without it,” she said. Her message to others is simple: “You can accomplish your dreams if you put your mind and time into it.” Melanie’s experience is one she will never forget. “I honestly couldn’t give more thanks for the opportunity that was given to me, and I know it will help future students just like it helped me.”
Yoselin
Yoselin, Adult Program
For many adult learners, returning to school requires courage, determination, and a deep sense of purpose. For Yoselin, that purpose is clear as she works to build a better future for herself and her two young sons. A devoted mother who loves cooking and spending time with her boys, Yoselin made the decision to return to school so she could create new opportunities for her family.

Her path has not been easy. Yoselin faced the difficult reality of leaving a toxic relationship with the father of her children. “It was hard because I was emotionally attached,” she shared, “but I knew it was time to leave for me and my kids.” In the midst of personal upheaval, she remained focused on building a safer, more stable future.

Through it all, Yoselin has never lost belief in herself. “I pushed through the whole time,” she said. “There wasn’t a moment when I thought I couldn’t do it.” Motivated by her children and encouraged by her mother, she has stayed committed to earning her diploma.

The Street School’s Adult Program has provided the flexibility she needs to balance work, parenting, and her education. With the support of caring teachers like Ms. Tammy and Ms. Denise, Yoselin has found both encouragement and understanding along the way. Their support, along with the program’s flexibility, has helped her stay on track and continue moving forward.

One of the most meaningful moments of her journey will come when she walks across the stage at graduation, a milestone that represents not only academic success, but perseverance and personal growth. Along the way, she has learned to manage multiple responsibilities, gaining confidence in her strength and resilience.

As she nears graduation, Yoselin is already looking ahead. She plans to continue her education at a community college and pursue a career as a translator. “Now I want to keep going and have a better future for me and my boys,” she said.

Yoselin is most proud of finding the courage to start again. “I had to accept that dropping out was a mistake, but I chose to do something about it,” she reflected. Her advice to others is simple. “Follow your dreams and do what makes you happy. Never let your dreams go, no matter what you are going through.”

Her story is a powerful example of what is possible when determination meets opportunity and of the life-changing impact the Street School makes for students and their families.
WSSS Yearbook Cover
2026 Yearbook
View Now
Class of 2024
Graduation Ceremony
Thursday, May 30th, 2024
Home Moravian Church 6:30 PM
Call (336) 721-1110 for more information
Sylvia Shelton Memorial Fall Luncheon
Millennium Center
Tuesday, October 7th, 2025
To sponsor a table, reserve a seat or more information click below.
Join Us!
Share the Love 2024
9th Annual Valentine's Fundraiser and Gala!
SAVE THE DATE
Register
Saturday, February 14, 2026
Old Town Club
For more information on attending or becoming a sponsor, click here.
Thank you for your support of Share the Love 2024…

We’ll see you next year
Share the Love
Fleet for the Street 5K
8th Annual Feet for the Street 5K & 7 Miler
April 25, 2026 - Salem Lake
Register Now
Save the date
Sylvia Shelton
October 6, 2026
Sylvia Shelton Memorial Fall Luncheon
Share the Love
February 12, 2027
Share the Love Evening
FFTS
April 24, 2027
9th Annual Feet for the Street 5K & 7 Miler
Class of 2026
Graduation Ceremony
Thursday, May 29th
Home Moravian Church
View Photos
2026 Graduation
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Save the Date!
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Urgent Needs & Wish List
Please consider making these and all your Amazon purchases through Amazon Smile. Select us as your charity of choice, and Amazon will donate 0.5% of your purchase price to the Street School!
  • Copy Paper
  • 45 Gallon Trash Bags
  • Stamps
  • Take Out Food Containers
  • Paper Towels
  • Ziplock Bags
  • Foil and Cling Wrap
  • Kleenex
  • Grocery Store Gift Cards
  • Dish Detergent
  • Non-perishable Food Items
  • Snacks
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