a record number of high schools in the east bay are going on to college thanks to special scar holarships. their persistence and determination is turning out in a big way. >> many have already overcome adversity. >> i am not standing on this stage because my dad is in prison i am here because of what i decided to do in the situation. >> she turned to theater. >> i never chose to be an activist, i just decided to not be a victim. >> she's the tip of the iceberg. a record number 400 students are receiving scholarships. more than $3 million are being given this year. >> i don't think i would be able to go to school i'm going to without their support. >> sending students to call knowledge with scholarship money is not enough. the goal is graduation. they connect every student with a mentor to make that happen. >> they picked me, perfect. >> a retired teacher shares her love of theater. >> she's willing to drive up to oregon and hangout with me and go see shows with me. >> the program has an 80% graduation rate, and that's four times the national average for students from low income back groun