CircusTeens is CircEsteem’s youth employment program created in 2004. It provides opportunities for older students to become more involved with CircEsteem. It is an opportunity for them to gain work experience and save money for college while doing something they love. The CircusTeens are paid to mentor younger students, teach circus skills, perform and assist at HomeWork & CircusWork, Summer and Winter Camp, and on Saturdays with the Chicago Youth Circus. In order to be a CircusTeen, students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average, demonstrate a level of maturity and responsibility, be able to show mastery of specific circus skills, have a passion for performing and model positive behavior and leadership skills.
Maria Clement joined CircEsteem in the winter of 2002, a year after she moved to America from Egypt. Being new in the country, CircEsteem made her feel welcome. Maria believes that home is where the heart is, and CircEsteem is my family. Maria embraces the diversity of people and circus skills that CircEsteem produces.