From that first life-changing moment, when we learn to tie our shoes, to the first time we make a meal for ourselves, life is full of amazing little milestones that help us to grow into independent people that can “do it for ourselves.” It’s what we’re encouraged to do from very early on.
There are times in our lives when we need to do things on our own and be self-reliant. There are other times, however, when we need help from other people to get by. It’s just not possible to do it alone! As we reach different parts of our journey, our needs change. Trying to do it all alone is neither practical nor advisable. That’s when we need to look to those around us to get the resources we need.
At Smart Schools, we know that many of our students have specific needs and they’re not all the same. That’s why we provide services and resources to meet a variety of needs. Sometimes they’re basic things needed to survive and sometimes they’re more complex needs like recovery or housing services. Whatever those needs are, our staff is there.
Academic Advisors that stay by your side
The first line of support for Smart Schools students is their Academic Advisor. The Academic Advisor or Mentor is a dedicated support person assigned to a student. They check in with their students regularly and work to help them overcome any obstacles they are facing. An Advisor cares about their students’ well-being and wants to see them prosper.
For many, the Academic Advisor is also a friend. Over the course of their time at Smart Schools, students often build relationships with their Advisor.
Almost endless resources at the HUB
The HUBs are where students can get assistance for many of their life needs. The HUBs provide countless services, tools and resources to help students get what they need to overcome life’s barriers.
Their student resources include:
Computer and Wi-Fi access
Homework & lounge areas
Breakfast and lunch
Food, hygiene, and clothing vault
Tutoring sessions
Child-safe parent work area
Counseling services
Laundry facilities
Study groups
Workshops
Social activities/events
Meeting opportunities with mentors and instructors
College and career preparation
The HUB often hosts our community partners for services that our students need. Students who need these services can come in anytime during business hours and talk with a Resource Specialist.
Level up your learning with tutoring from a real teacher
One unique thing about the online high school program at Smart Schools is that even though it’s online, you can meet with a credentialed, high-quality teacher to get tutoring. Whether you need to talk with them right away or in-person at the HUB. The teachers at Smart Schools want to see you pass your classes. As a Smart Schools student, you can request time to meet with them online or at the HUB, as you need. Your teacher’s contact information is available in the online learning system.
Get help when you need it most
There can be moments when you are in a difficult or dangerous situation that needs immediate attention. In those moments, Megan Loeffler, a Community Resource Specialist, is there to walk with you in what you’re going through. While Megan is based out of the Phoenix HUB, she is able to help any student based in Arizona. She can be reached at meganl@iwantmydiploma.com.
Also available for anyone is the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, previously known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. It provides 24/7 support for anyone experiencing emotional distress. You can reach out to them at any time. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org.
Plan your future with live Guidance Counselors
Graduation Solutions wants students to not only graduate but move forward with a plan for what's next. They want to make sure students succeed. So, whether students choose to jump into the job market, enroll in a trade certification program, or pursue a college degree, they have support to get them started. The College and Career Readiness team has resources to help you be prepared for life after your diploma.
The School Counselor is available to meet with students online or in person, as they need. Students just fill out the form to schedule a time with Angela Chicci!
Get life skills and business coaching
The JAG program gives students the opportunity to get business and career coaching for free. Students in the program gain an advantage by learning what it takes to succeed in business or a career. The program is currently available at the East Valley HUB location and is offered as a for-credit elective course.
Business or career coaching services normally cost $75 to $250 per hour. Students in the JAG program will get it for free. The JAG Coordinator and Business Coach, Emily Amparan, can provide more information about the program and what students expect when they join the program. She can be reached at emilya@iwantmydiploma.com
We know that reaching out to ask for help can take courage. That’s why we want students to know that it’s okay to ask for help. We all need help sometimes. When that time comes for you, know that Smart Schools has many resources and partnerships to help you overcome!
Sources
How to Ask for Help When You’re Afraid To Do So
Why Asking For Help Is A Strength (And Three Ways To Do So Effectively)
