Welcome Back-To-School From the CAC Team!
By Sarah Biette, Manager of Partnerships and Outreach
School is back in session across the country, with some students just finishing up their first week, and others finishing their first month in the classroom! In the spirit of back-to-school, I reached out to members of the Center for Advancing Community team to ask for their advice for students and non-students alike.
If you're a student getting into the groove of your first semester, returning to college after a long time away, taking night classes, or just excited for some school supply sales, we hope you can take what resonates with you and start this year strong.
Build a community for yourself through extracurriculars or outside of school activities. Especially in a big school, it can be easy to feel small -- finding a club, a hobby, or a community space to visit and engage with will help you feel more connected to others.
— Sarah Biette, Manager of Partnerships and Outreach
Stay kind, be curious, and give yourself room to grow—school isn’t just about grades, it’s a chance to learn more about who you are and what you care about. And don’t forget to take deep breaths, stay hydrated, and pack a good snack!
— Liv Brayan, Administrative & Operations Consultant
Be compassionate and kind. Don't be afraid to explore new things that will get you out of your comfort zone. Find things that make you happy and bring you peace. Yes, you are in school, but prioritize yourself as well.
— Dr. DeVanee Lasley-Brown, Youth Engagement Consultant
Don't focus solely on the metrics and outputs of your child's student experience, like their GPA, extracurriculars, and other accomplishments. Instead, focus on honoring their holistic experience. Give intention to the memories you're making with your child and to the memories that they create independently in their own lives.
— Sarah Woolverton-Mohler, Executive Director
Adults, ask your children what skills and concepts they learned in specific classes EVERY DAY. This will shift their focus from just earning a grade towards learning. Grades are important, but learning and growth should be the focus.
— Ryan Hall, Director
Believe that you belong in every space you walk into this year. Your voice, ideas, and presence matter more than you realize. Parents, your support means the world: listen, encourage, and celebrate the small wins along the way. They build the confidence kids carry all year.
— Ashley-Crystal Langston, Director
Give yourself time to get adjusted to new things-- classrooms, schedules, teachers, and friends. Change can be frustrating, but stay grounded, focused, and patient.
— Jené Liggins, Director
Push through your nervousness about asking questions. I promise you're not the only one wondering!
— Dr. Shannon McLaughlin Rooney, Director
A new school year presents a great opportunity to nourish your spirit and let it shine! As you do this, it's very important to stay centered, build your integrity, and follow your highest principles. Set a beautiful example for others to follow, chart a positive path, and always remember to stand up for what's right!
— Lisa M. Pérez Zapata, Director