***This article was written by Aundrea Serna, a participant of The Kewanee Voice Student Journalism Program, funded by the Harry Anderson Memorial Trust.
While students at Wethersfield Jr/Sr High School focus on academics and extracurriculars, someone is working behind the scenes to make sure the students have the support and resources they need.
Lexie Mendoza is the site coordinator for the 21st Century Community Learning Center, known as Soarin’. The program is funded through a federal grant partnership between Wethersfield and the Bureau, Henry, Stark counties Regional Office of Education. From being able to provide homework help before and after school for school clubs, Mendoza plays a crucial role in making the student experience easier and more enjoyable.
Her job may not be in the spotlight, but the effect of what she does is felt by students. We asked Mendoza for some insights into her position and the Soarin’ program. Here’s what she told us.
If you could change one thing about your job, what would it be?
For Mendoza, the change she would like to see in her job is more parent involvement. Soarin’ has free family nights and parent education nights, and she wishes to bring more awareness to these events.
Has there ever been a moment where you have seen the impact of your work on the students? If so, what did it feel like?
“Yes, the positive impact our program has on students makes me feel great knowing we are able to offer a program that provides academic enrichment opportunities for students before and after school,” Mendoza said.
How do you think the school environment would change if your job didn’t exist?
Without Soarin’, Mendoza believes that students’ academic standing would be affected as they would no longer have the opportunity to receive help or enjoy extracurriculars.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced at work? How did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge Mendoza has faced at work is student attendance. To address this problem, she has made the effort to be present during the school day and available for questions. She is also trying to increase awareness of Soarin’ clubs and homework help through increased advertising within the school and also on social media.
What keeps you motivated when you feel underappreciated or overwhelmed at work?
“Something that keeps me motivated when feeling underappreciated or overwhelmed at work is reminding myself, I show up every day to make a difference in students’ lives.” Mendoza said.
Mendoza’s passion and commitment for what she does has made a difference to the school community, but the behind-the-scenes nature of the program means it can often be overlooked. Her goal is to not only support the students but help them reach their goals, empower them and ensure they take full advantage of what the Soarin’ program has to offer.
