Moving from Expulsion to Academic Success
Third grader Nevin struggled with behavioral problems and was expelled from NAZ partner Ascension Catholic School as a result. In partnership with the school, NAZ staff met with Nevin’s mom, Tina, to brainstorm solutions. Over the course of a few meetings, “Team Nevin” strategized a multi-pronged approach to keep the child in school.
Angelica Sanchez, the NAZ Academic Navigator at Ascension, now spends thirty minutes of every school day with Nevin, helping him transition into the classroom in the morning. She also checks in with him throughout the day. “He looks forward to our check-ins,” Angelica says. “It’s given him confidence.”
NAZ Connector, Shatika Coleman, meets regularly with the family to ensure they have the support they need, and to connect them to the NAZ behavioral health network. Meanwhile, Tina gets her son to school on time every morning and helps him with his homework.
Since implementing this team approach in December 2015, Nevin has done a 180-degree turn. “The child’s behavior has been amazing,” says outgoing principal Dorwatha Woods.
When we align resources around a single child, the results can be life-changing. Now that Nevin is attending school regularly and better able to manage his emotions, his learning potential is limitless.