Drew's Story
Negative past experiences made Drew’s mother reluctant to reach out to his school. She was thrilled to be offered the opportunity to participate in the Elementary to Middle School Transition Project, a LifeWorks NW School-Based program designed to assist struggling 5th graders with their transition to Middle School. Funded through the Juvenile Crime Prevention Program, the program works with a student’s family, school and community to develop support.
A specialist from LifeWorks NW began working with Drew and his mother by identifying their strengths. Drew’s mother was committed to her son’s success, but was not a strong advocate for him at school. The family was concerned about each other, but needed help with communication. The specialist and Drew’s mother decided to try having him volunteer in the community. After a few successful experiences, Drew began to volunteer with others to get some positive experiences relating to his peers. As Drew continued in the program, he was able to talk about his choices, his behavior, and how it felt to receive positive feedback at school. As Drew and his mother began to feel better about his school situation, their relationship improved.
Drew still has his ups and downs — but has established excellent connections with his Vice Principal, and many of his teachers. His mother feels comfortable approaching the school to address Drew’s needs, and feels more competent navigating the “system” to access support.