Baleria Yugu is the 2023 recipient of the Portland High School “Step up Award” – the award provides funding for students who would otherwise have to forego school-year extracurriculur opportunities in order to work after school and/or on weekends.  Baleria, a rising junior, will receive $1,2500. per semester until her graduation.  The “Step up Award” that provides the funding was created by Ann and Bill Weber, parents of two Portland High School graduates.

The Award, a nationally recognized college readiness program, is designed for multilingual high school students.  Students who attend Portland’s secondary schools work closely with staff, volunteers and community partners to build competitive academic, civic, professional and personal profiles for college admission and learn how to navigate and access financial aid.  Students are encouraged to take challenging classes and take advantage of other career readiness opportunities.

Baleria Yugu was selected for the 2023 “Step up Award” for her strong academic perfomance, passion for pursuing a career in the medical field and wide range of interests and activities.  She is a three season varsity athlete, playing soccer, basketball and track.  She is also involved in the Black Student Union and wants to take on a leadership role.

Baleria said:  “I want to continue taking honors and AP classes which will prepare me for a rigorous college schedule.”  This summer she’ll be working with the Sea Dogs.  Baleria has been accepted into the Biomedical and Health Sciences Program at PATHS for her junior and senior years.  She hopes to get an internship at Maine Medical Center.