Blog By: Stacey Buenavista, Director of School Partnerships

​UE Constellation program is excited to highlight Creekside Middle school!
​Creekside is located in Castro Valley and is one of 2 middle schools in this small east bay town.  Castro Valley Unified School district is not new to our partnership as we have supported the CEC classroom at Redwood High School (the district’s credit recovery campus) for several years.  But this year our partnership has expanded to include Castro Valley High school and Creekside middle school!
This is our first full school year with Creekside middle school.  Last year the partnership initially began with a single outpatient provider who held a small caseload and attended to a range of crisis needs.  But this year we are excited to have expanded to a full counseling enriched classroom (CEC) which includes our Clinical Intervention Specialist, Casey Soto and 2 Mental health counselors Yorelis Gutierrez and Madelaine West.  The dedicated team provides a range of tier 3 services including individual, group and family therapy, direct behavioral support services, crisis intervention, case management and collaboration with district partners including most closely the district special education teacher. The team has proudly represented the Seneca FOA values of love and compassion, hope and courage, respect, curiosity, joy, equity and justice.  Through their dedication and modeling we are aligning our shared vision of the partnership in an exciting way.
We look forward to continuing to strengthen this partnership so that students who were initially being transferred out of district for services can return to their home communities to receive support and care that aligns with the shared values.  

Blog By: Jessica Welsh, Clinical Supervisor

Position: Program Supervisor

What led you to your current position? My journey to becoming a Program Supervisor came as I was figuring out what I wanted to do next, both professionally and academically. While I was thinking about going back to school, I knew I wanted to grow as a leader and be a more well-rounded individual. This position offered the perfect opportunity to gain experience, support students, mentor others, and prepare me for future roles.

What inspires you to do this work? I love being able to support students during such an important time in their lives. Knowing I can help guide them and have a positive impact on their growth is rewarding. I also thrive on the challenges this work presents. Each day is a chance to grow, problem-solve, and learn. Beyond the work itself, I’m grateful for the people I meet along the way who support me and encourage me to keep pushing forward. This journey has also allowed me to become a role model for younger family members, which keeps me going when things get tough. It’s both humbling and motivating to know that my actions can influence those around me.

What is a recent highlight you’ve experienced in the work or an important lesson you’ve learned in this role? One of the most important lessons I’ve learned in this role is the importance of self-care. I know everyone says it, but taking the time to check in with yourself and prioritize your own wellness is needed. Whether that means seeking support, taking a day off, or making space to spend time with your loved ones, it's so important to recharge. The work we do is demanding, and it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle; but if we don’t take care of ourselves, it becomes much harder to show up for others. I’ve learned that taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of others.
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Share your life motto or something unique about yourself: Sometimes, it’s the people no one imagines anything of who do the things that no one can imagine. Believe in yourself and live a life that you can be proud of.

Position: Clinical Counseling Associate

What led you to your current position? My supervisors and the classroom clinicians I've worked with have been awesome mentors and have encouraged me to become a CCA. After gaining some experience in the CCA role, I am now pursuing a Masters in Social Work. 

What inspires you to do this work? My personal and family healing journey first brought me to this work. Now, I am constantly inspired by our clients and their perseverance through their own healing journeys. Our youth are so resilient, open to learning new skills and ideas, and have an innate sense of justice that is always inspiring to me.

What is a recent highlight you’ve experienced in the work or an important lesson you’ve learned in this role? As a lifelong caretaker, I've often found myself rushing to solve everyone's problems. In this work, I've learned the importance of providing space and empowering others to create their own solutions in their own way and timeline. 
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Share your life motto or something unique about yourself. I love roller skating and was a founding member of the first junior roller derby league.

​In January of this year, Hayward became the first city in the Bay Area, and one of the first cities in the country, to divest the city’s stock ownership stakes in four companies that support the genocide of Palestinians (Chevron, Hyundai, Intel and Caterpillar).

​Hayward’s holdings in the four companies amounted to $1.6 million and the motion narrowly passed with a vote of 4-3 from the Hayward City Council. During the city council meeting, nearly 50 people provided public comments, the majority of which were youth from Hayward Public Schools (and some from the schools that we partner with).
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The HEART program is proud to work with youth fighting for the collective liberation of all oppressed people and stand in solidarity with the Palestinian, Arab, and Muslim families in our Hayward community.

Blog By: Jesse Wiltey, Assistant Director of School Partnerships

​As a part of our focus on professional development this year in our West Bay program, we have been dedicating time to discuss Decolonizing Therapy by Dr. Jennifer Mullan. Dr. Jennifer Mullan offers practical steps that we can take to engage in decolonizing our therapeutic work. Clinicians in our program have been really engaged in exploring the impacts of oppressive systems on the clients and families we serve and the role that we play in those oppressive systems. So far, we have had several lively and rich discussions about the book. If you are more interested in learning about Dr. Mullan's work, watch the video linked in this post. 

​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxhCPY88hGA

Blog By: Jalecia Jones, Clinical Supervisor

Position: UE Coach
What led you to your current position? I transitioned to my role as UE Coach after teaching in schools that implemented the Unconditional Education (UE) model. Witnessing the profound impact of this approach on students and families inspired me to leverage my teaching experience to support school staff in achieving meaningful outcomes.
What inspires you to do this work? I am driven by a commitment to community engagement and prioritizing the humanity of individuals navigating the challenges of public education in Title 1 schools.
What is a recent highlight you’ve experienced in the work or an important lesson you’ve learned in this role? A key lesson I’ve learned in this role is the value of listening to understand different perspectives. I’ve come to recognize that the stories told by data can ignite transformative change.
Share your life motto or something unique about yourself. "We are all little seeds just trying to grow."

​We are thrilled to announce that the West Coast Connections program has been recognized by the West Contra Costa Unified School District as the Community-Based Organization of the Year. This prestigious honor is a testament to the dedication and commitment of our team to support children, families, and communities through transformative, trauma-informed practices and school-wide systems of care. Amber Fretwell, our Executive Director, proudly accepted this award on behalf of our agency on September 30th, recognizing the incredible efforts of each staff member who makes our mission a reality every day.

Our partnership with WCCUSD started in 2016 with three Unconditional Education Coaches at Ford Elementary, Grant Elementary, and Verde Elementary, implementing data informed and researched based school-wide interventions. These interventions included Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports, Coordination of Services Teams, Professional Development and Capacity Building for staff, social skills groups for students, and much more.  Over the years, we’ve expanded our partnerships and currently serve 12 schools, providing a range of services.  In addition to UE Coaches, we have Clinical Intervention Specialists who provide therapy for students who qualify through medi-cal, Behavior Intervention Specialists who help develop and implement school-wide behavioral systems, and Student Support Assistance who provide individualized behavior supports for students.  We are also in our first year of training WCCUSD staff on how to facilitate CARE teams to ensure equitable access to services and interventions on school campuses. 
 
This award belongs to each member of our team whose dedication makes a difference every day. Thank you to all the passionate staff members whose hard work and commitment to the children, families, and communities we serve make our program possible. Your unwavering dedication to positive change and your belief in the power of healing and centering the voices of students and families is truly inspiring.
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Congratulations to the entire West Coast Connections team, and a heartfelt thank you to the West Contra Costa Unified School District for this wonderful recognition! Together, we are building brighter futures and creating supportive, equitable spaces where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

Blog By: Laura Lin, Director of School Partnerships

​In the vibrant and dynamic environment of schools, educators and support staff juggle multiple responsibilities while trying to maintain a positive atmosphere for students. With the relentless demands of teaching, behavioral, social and emotional support for students, many school professionals are seeking effective ways to enhance their well-being during the workday. One emerging approach gaining popularity is microdosing wellness—small, intentional practices that can lead to significant improvements in mental and emotional health. Microdosing wellness can transform your workday experience.

Wellness as a Birthright
It’s important to lift up that wellness and healing is not just a luxury; it is a birthright. Every individual deserves to feel good, to thrive, and to be supported in their physical, mental, and emotional health. In a school environment, where the focus is often on nurturing the growth of students, it’s easy to overlook the importance of self-care for educators and staff. However, prioritizing your well-being is essential—not only for your own health but also for the students who look to you as a role model. When you invest in your own wellness, you send a powerful message that taking care of oneself is fundamental to a fulfilling life. 

What is Microdosing Wellness? 
Microdosing wellness refers to the practice of incorporating small, manageable wellness strategies into your daily routine. These practices are designed to improve mood, increase focus, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being without requiring substantial time or effort. For educators and school staff, microdosing wellness can be especially beneficial, allowing for rejuvenation amidst the busyness of the school day.

Practical Microdosing Strategies for School Professionals
Here are some microdosing wellness strategies tailored for those who work in schools - some of these can be practiced during your commute as well:

1. Mindful Breathing
   Taking just a few moments to focus on your breath can have a profound impact on your mental clarity and stress levels. Try a simple exercise: inhale deeply for four counts, hold for four counts, and exhale for six counts. Repeat this cycle three to five times throughout the day to recenter yourself.
2. Movement Breaks
   Incorporate short bursts of movement into your schedule. Stand up, stretch, or take a brief walk around your classroom or the school. Even a five-minute break to move can improve circulation, elevate your mood, and help you refocus.
3. Gratitude Journaling
   Spend a few minutes each day writing down three things you’re grateful for. This practice shifts your focus from stressors to positive aspects of your day, fostering a more optimistic outlook.
4. Nature Exposure
   If possible, spend a few moments outdoors during your breaks. Natural light and fresh air can significantly boost your mood and energy levels. Consider organizing outdoor activities with students, integrating wellness into the curriculum while benefiting yourself. Those of us in the Bay Area are lucky enough to have almost year-round access to the outdoors given our mild climate.
5. Hydration and Nutrition
   Keep a water bottle at your desk and take sips throughout the day. Pair this with healthy snacks like nuts, fruits, or yogurt. Proper hydration and nutrition can greatly affect your energy and concentration levels.
6. Digital Detox
   Allocate specific times to step away from screens. This could be during lunch or between classes. Use that time to engage in face-to-face conversations with colleagues or to enjoy a moment of silence. It’s also good for your eyes to take regular screen breaks and look into the distance.
7. Positive Affirmations
   Start your day with a positive affirmation. It can be something simple like, “I am capable and ready to inspire my students today,” or “My wellness is essential.” Repeating affirmations throughout the day can help reinforce a positive mindset.
8. Mini Meditation
   Even a minute of meditation can clear your mind and reduce stress. Find a quiet space, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. You can also use meditation apps for guided sessions tailored to short time frames.
9. Mindful Drawing

          Take a moment to play with this online drawing board.  The virtual ink responds to your gestures
         and fades over time as if evaporating. There’s also a button on the screen to play the sound of a gentle stream as                you draw.

The Ripple Effect of Wellness in SchoolsIntegrating microdosing wellness practices into your workday doesn’t just benefit you; it creates a ripple effect throughout the school environment. When educators and staff prioritize their well-being, they become more engaged, patient, and present, positively influencing students’ experiences. Moreover, a culture of wellness can inspire colleagues and students to adopt healthy habits themselves, fostering a supportive community focused on holistic development and collective care. 
ConclusionIn the fast-paced world of education, it’s essential to prioritize your well-being to sustain your passion for working with and supporting your students effectively. Remember, wellness is your birthright, and you have the power to claim it. Microdosing wellness offers practical, manageable strategies to enhance your workday without overwhelming your schedule. By incorporating these small practices into your routine, you can cultivate a healthier mindset, improve your mood, and contribute to a more positive school environment. Start today and watch how these small shifts can lead to substantial changes in your well-being and that of your school community. Embrace your right to wellness—it’s time to prioritize yourself!
Want to explore more? Check out these resources
Gather At the Well - a podcast that isn’t just a podcast - “it’s a movement to reimagine how we relate to our work.”  Lindsey Fuller at The Teaching Well is on a mission to “build work cultures we don’t have to heal from.” Gather At The Well: Micro-Dosing Wellness - Lindsey Fuller — We Are For Good
Black Emotional and Mental Health Collective shares this affirmation as part of their Wellness Tools resources:  Healing is our Birthright Affirmation - BEAM

Blog By: Emily Marsh, Director of Clinical Intervention Services

​Position: Clinical Supervisor

What led you to your current position? While I was a clinician, I did not see a lot of folks in clinical leadership positions that looked like me and I wanted to be a part of changing that perception. That combined with my previous program leadership team encouraging me to develop in that direction led me to pursue this role with our amazing UE West Bay team.

What inspires you to do this work? Supporting therapists in bringing their true authentic selves into this work while also watching them grow professionally. All the while providing clients and families with the care that they need. 

What is a recent highlight you’ve experienced in the work or an important lesson you’ve learned in this role? A recent highlight has been watching another one of our clinicians obtain licensure. (Shout out to Shaina!) There is nothing like getting to celebrate our clinicians when they reach a goal that it took them years to work towards.

Share your life motto: My life's motto is "protect your peace at all costs". 
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Something unique: I am not a big fan of the spotlight. Agreeing to do this highlight is so far out of my comfort zone, it would take a parachute for me to find it again. When I was younger, the best woman I know (my grandma) told me "Your best growing happens when you're uncomfortable, so you better get used to it".