She stood in front of a maroon and gold backdrop, holding a certificate for Outstanding Committee Leader. A year earlier, she was just one of dozens of students hoping someone would notice her.
That’s the story of Level Up’s first year at Baker Middle School, and it’s a story of what happens when caring adults simply show up.
Solving a Real Gap
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Puget Sound launched Level Up in fall 2025 with a goal of serving 50 students. By year’s end, 107 sixth through eighth graders had a Lead Mentor on campus five days a week, someone consistent, someone who listened, someone in their corner.
“When caring adults consistently show up, listen, encourage, and believe in young people, they begin to see new possibilities for their own future,” said Monique DuBose, Regional Director of Tacoma for BBBSPS. “This model isn’t just about mentoring, it’s about changing trajectories.”
What Changed
Students reported real growth in belonging, confidence, and their vision for the future, but the deeper impact showed up in the everyday: kids working through friendship struggles, attendance, and self-doubt in a space built on trust.
Baker Middle School’s administration saw it too. Vice Principal Fabbiney Scarlett, Ed.S, credited the program with improved attendance, stronger behavior, and a renewed sense of belonging school-wide.
What’s Next
Other school districts are already asking how they can bring Level Up to their own campuses, meaning more students could soon have what Baker’s students found this year: someone who shows up, every day, no matter what.
Read the Full Story
Level Up’s first year is proof of what’s possible when a young person knows someone believes in them. Get the full details, the numbers, the moments, the voices behind this milestone.
👉 Read the full press release here
And if this story moved you: become a Big, or give today. It takes little to be Big, but it can change everything for a young person who just needs someone to show up.
