Our Mission:

At Start2Finish, we guide youth in developing the skills, confidence, and mindset essential for success in school and life. We support students and families before, during, and after school, serving them throughout their elementary journey and beyond. Our mission is to create a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where youth thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and physically. We inspire a love of learning, build lasting confidence, and empower youth to reach their fullest potential – greatness. We believe in fostering responsible, caring individuals who will grow into strong, compassionate leaders – from start to finish.

A Holistic Approach to Growth:

We take a holistic approach to supporting students, recognizing that their needs extend beyond academics. Our focus is on developing well-rounded children equipped to thrive in all areas. By partnering with families and the community, we work to ensure students receive the support they need both at school and beyond, creating a strong foundation for long-term success.

While our primary focus is on kindergarten to fifth-grade students, our commitment extends well beyond elementary school. We aim to build long-lasting relationships with the families and communities we serve. After students graduate, they can stay connected with Start2Finish through volunteering or joining our team. These ongoing opportunities allow us to continue supporting students as they grow into young adults, helping them develop leadership skills and stay engaged with the Start2Finish community throughout their educational journey.

Our Story:

Start2Finish was founded in 2024 by Nick Newman with a heartfelt vision: to create a high-quality initiative that generates the best possible experience for students, families, and other key stakeholders at Commodore Sloat. Inspired by his journey within the community, Nick set out to build a program model that supports students in their overall development and fosters meaningful connections that last well beyond elementary school.

Nick’s story with Commodore Sloat began in 2015 when he first joined the community as a teenager. Over the years, he took on various roles, gaining a deep understanding of the needs of the school site. In September 2024, Nick pursued his dream of bringing his own school-based nonprofit to Commodore Sloat by establishing Start2Finish, an organization dedicated to empowering students from the ground up.

Through Start2Finish, Nick channels his passion by directing out-of-school-time programs and serving as one of Commodore Sloat’s PE teachers. His commitment goes beyond structured activities—he aims to cultivate a vibrant community where students and families feel valued and cared about. Start2Finish is about building confident, compassionate, and well-rounded individuals and fostering connections that last a lifetime.

What’s Next:

Starting in August 2025, Start2Finish will officially launch operations at Commodore Sloat. Our services will include comprehensive before and after-school programming, PE instruction, and structured games during recess and lunch. We are excited to serve the entire Sloat community and provide a space where former students can remain involved.