Just over a year ago, Zach spent much of his time in the principal’s office. Today, his wasted time in the confines of the school office has been replaced with meaningful time in the friendship of a police officer.

A Troubled Boy

Zach grew up beneath the shadow of some very troubled role models. By the time Zach entered second-grade his attitude toward school, his friends and anyone in authority was reflecting that influence.

"I was always in trouble," says Zach. "I would talk back to my teachers. I didn’t listen to anyone and I was almost always late for school."

Zach’s severely at-risk behavior pointed him to the Compeer program at the Mental Health Association of South Central Kansas, a United Way-funded agency. Compeer’s school-based program matched Zach up with Mike Roetz, community policing officer.

"It’s very important for these kids to have positive role models," says Officer Mike. "I wouldn’t be where I am today without the guidance of some great role models and stable people…and that’s why I wanted to stay with Zach."

A Challenge to Change

Compeer works with at-risk children in efforts to improve their social skills, provide a positive mentor and to fill a void that’s been left in their lives. According to Jennifer Szambecki, children’s compeer coordinator, Compeer gives these students something productive to do with their time.

"With few exceptions, we’ve seen great results in the behavior of these kids," says Szambecki.

Officer Mike, who’s been with Zach for nearly a year now, says that Zach is a prime example of how this program changes lives.

"When I first met Zach, he wasn’t very open or talkative and he didn’t have any goals," says Mike. "He would hardly sleep, instead he would stay up late watching TV shows with a lot of violence in them."

Mike worked with Zach on setting achievable goals, such as getting to school on time and having a better attitude. Zach’s grades have greatly improved, he doesn’t fight anymore, and he enjoys coming to school and being with his friends.

A Positive Outcome

"Zach is a much more positive person with a great attitude," says Mike. "He is also much healthier… he’s not always tired."

Zach says he’s learned a lot from Mike. "I know why I need to have a better attitude," says Zach. "I’ve seen that if I have a good attitude, I have more fun…and then I don’t get into trouble."

To this fourth grader, it’s as simple as that. Then again, Zach’s always been smart, he just needed someone to help bring out his potential.

"Zach is such a bright kid, but a lot of adults looked past his brightness and only saw how troubled he was," says Szambecki. "All Mike sees is Zach’s brightness…and Zach really responds to that."

Call United Way of the Plains at 267-1321 to find out more about how your money is helping our community.