Making a Difference in Daily Life at School

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Counseling Enriched Classroom Program (for grades 9-12) counselor, Emma Elliott recently received an AEF Teacher Mini Grant and wrote:

“The students in the Counseling Enriched Classroom (CEC) program at Alameda High School have greatly benefited from the Educator Mini-Grant provided by the Alameda Education Foundation. Our students face a range of mental health challenges that can make it difficult for them to make it difficult to come to school, interact with peers, and engage in coursework. This funding has made a meaningful difference in their daily school experience.

My goal is to improve students’ overall well-being so they can reach their goal of graduating high school. Each of them is so bright and unique and with the right support will be able to thrive at school and beyond.

With the support of the grant, I have been able to continue implementing a positive reinforcement ticket system that recognizes students for on-task behavior, punctuality, participation, work completion, self-advocacy, helping others, etc.

As a result, we’ve seen notable improvements in class attendance, interpersonal communication, and students’ ability to advocate for themselves. The system has also helped my students practice patience, planning, and delayed gratification, as many choose to save their tickets toward larger rewards, like a $20 gift card (which costs 40 tickets), rather than spending them immediately on small items.

Beyond these measurable outcomes, the grant has helped foster a safe, supportive environment on campus. One student shared that knowing they can come to a classroom with trusted, encouraging adults and peers is sometimes the only reason they make it to school. Another student who is chronically absent arrived to the CEC feeling overwhelmed and anxious about being on campus. He was able to regulate by resting on the couch, holding a weighted stuffed animal, and practicing mindful breathing with Kyle the Koala. Moments like these highlight the profound impact of having a well-funded space where students feel seen, supported, and safe.

Thank you for investing in our students and making this work possible.”