My biggest takeaway from being an Elevator is learning that every kid is different (different personalities, different home life, different experiences, and the list goes on). But the one thing that every single kid needs is an adult who cares about them, whether it is a teacher, mentor, parent, grandparent, or a guardian. However, it does seem more special when it is an adult outside of the home. I have always known this but never given it much thought until recently. I know my adversities as a kid were nothing compared to some of the adversities that these kids face, but one example from my childhood was my difficulty in learning to read. Although there were times I was embarrassed that I needed to be pulled out of the classroom for individual help, I enjoyed getting one-on-one time with an adult who cared about my success.

No matter what situation is going on at home or in school, every single one of these kids wants to know that they have an adult who cares about them and their needs, wants, and dreams.

Nicole Barker