Students Share Their ALOP Success Stories

I have more confidence.  I am getting better grades.  I have less stress.

We often hear that type of great news from students who participate in West40’s Alternative Learning Opportunities Program (ALOP) at our partner schools across West Cook County. West40 advocates can meet with students daily to focus on social-emotional learning and relationship-building.

Gurrie Middle School eighth grader Ashly said when she was having difficulty with a class at the beginning of the school year, she asked her student advocate for help.

“She would sit with me during class and help me better understand the lessons and classwork that was taught,” Ashly said.  

Since joining ALOP, Ashly said she has joined school clubs and feels more confident to ask for help and present in English.

“I would say it’s a good support to have while you’re in school even if you don’t need them all the time. It's good to have someone there that you can count on for help. Especially if you’re new to the school or in my case need help with the language barrier,” Ashly said.

West40 student advocate Sandra Garcia said Ashly has been a pleasure to work with and is a student who has determination and demonstrates a strong work ethic.

“She carries a positive attitude towards learning and her ability to persevere through challenges and her commitment to academic excellence is truly commendable,” Garcia said.

West40 advocates in our partner school districts can support students in every grade level between Kindergarten and 12th grade.

Penny, a fourth grader at Jane Addams Elementary School, said ALOP helps people who need someone to talk to or just help you be more happy.

“I have learned from ALOP how to calm myself down and be my happiest version of myself,” said Penny.

West40 student advocate Elizabeth Salazar said she began working with Penny in the beginning of the school year and is able to see her growth based on her emotional progression.

“She has been able to articulate her emotions during our check-ins,” Salazar said. “Her ability to seek guidance during challenging times has allowed her to develop self-advocacy skills for the future.”

In addition to supporting students in partner school districts, West40 advocates routinely meet with students in our Safe School and Remote School. For more information about ALOP, connect with our senior student program directors Joe Gage (jgage@west40.org) and Renee Makris (rmakris@west40.org).