ATLANTA — One of Atlanta's most historically disadvantaged neighborhoods is making sure its students are valued and supported—and it's paying off.
The hallways of Carver Early College are rich with promise. This year, students have collectively earned more than $20 million in merit scholarships for their futures.
"The potential of all the kids at school here are amazing," said senior Herman McGhee.
He earned a full scholarship to Duke University from his time at Carver Early College. He appreciates the foundation his public school education gave him.
"Never give up on your dreams. Life is going to be hard. That's how it's supposed to be - especially for African American students," said McGhee.
U.S. News and World Report shows that 99% of the kids at Carver are minority students, and 100% are economically disadvantaged.
"Carver Early College is located in one of the most impoverished communities in the city of Atlanta," said Principal Dr. Christina Rogers. "And so there may not be an awareness of the greatness that does still happen when we put education on the forefront."
She says her students do not let their struggles define them.
"Our graduating class has a theme: from adversity to achievement," she said, "and each and every one of them has really embraced adversity, and they have overcome every single obstacle to realize that achievement was theirs from the very beginning."
Taurin Kemp is a first-generation high school graduate in his family who earned a full-ride athletic scholarship to Concord University.
"It gives me a lot of confidence to know that I can go out there and achieve what I want to and better myself," he said.
The head football coach at Carver is his mentor.
"I don't know where I would be without Coach Darren Myles. He is like a real father figure to me in school, football, and life," Kemp said.
Aden Richardson got the highest ACT score at the school and agrees seeking out mentors is important.
"Networking is an important part of life. Meeting the right people will give you access to opportunities that you never knew about," he said.
Richardson earned a scholarship to Florida A&M University.
Austin Chalmers, who earned a scholarship to Georgia State University, agrees. He also encourages students to follow their own path.
"Have a plan coming out of high school. You don't need to go to college, there are trade schools, vocational schools, two-year institutions," he rattled off, "but have a plan to get an education. That alone will put you ahead," said Chalmers.
See words of wisdom from the students below. The story continues after the slideshow.
Judith Yelibora earned a scholarship to Georgia Tech and says her high school experience was a benefit.
"There are a lot of opportunities here. The fact that it's a small school adds to its appeal. Everyone knows your name. All of the students have their doors open. There are so many opportunities. All you have to do is ask questions, put yourself in those positions, and you will be set up for life," she said.
Leonardo Molina-Gonzalez also earned a scholarship to Georgia Tech and is excited about the future.
"It feels like a dream. Ever since I was little, driving down the highway and passing the school, I just knew that was where I was meant to be," he said.
He wants to encourage other students to never give up on their dreams.
"It took a lot of studying, a lot of hours, asking teachers and students for help. There was always a friend I could go to for help," said Molina-Gonzalez.
Amir Hunter earned a full ride to the Citadel and hopes to become an Officer in the Army.
"The standard the school sets - I think it's important to go somewhere where the best is expected of you. I want to take myself there," she said.
The students are all expecting the best of themselves - and that is invaluable.