This experience helped me understand it is okay to slow down for 30 minutes a week to simply be a constant, reliable person in my students ' lives. These 30 minutes became the best 30 minutes of my week! — Brett Morris

The staff was excited to see us every time we showed up. You could tell they really cared about the impact it had on the students. Every time I went to request Michael from class, you could hear the other students chattering and asking what we were going to do that day. Being an Elevator has grounded me enough to realize that I don't have to do big events and big things to make a difference in people's lives. — Justin Gremillion

It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to be there for a child. It takes a village. — Kasey Bradshaw

Christina is the oldest of 6 and has 5 younger brothers, so a little attention goes a long way with her. Ask anyone who has been involved, and we will tell you that Education Elevators has been greatly rewarding personally, while also making a difference in the lives of the next generation. — Kelly Whitlockck

When I started mentoring Amaad in 2019, he was a second grader at Mary C. Snow Elementary. He now has just one more year left at West Side Middle School. It has been a real joy to watch Amaad grow and mature. — Bryan Cokeley

I have thoroughly enjoyed my first-year experience as an Elevator. I believe it has been very effective for Maurese, and I am excited to be there for him as he climbs his way through Mary C. Snow. Maurese brings the energy every day and is excited for everything we do, whether it is something more conventionally fun, like passing football, or just reviewing the math he has been learning in that unit. His energy is very infectious. I naturally reciprocate without noticing, and am now pumped up every time I get in the car to head over to see him. — Evan Stire

I feel that Harley and I have a positive impact on each other's lives. The most important thing I get out of being an Elevator is gaining an appreciation for the struggles that some children go through in our community. — Marcus Black

As time has gone on, I can see that Kayleigh has become more talkative with me and trusting of me. She has opened up at times and told me about her world outside of school. It is so important for students to have people in their lives who are present just for them and whom they can count on to be there. Giving them undivided attention and showing up on a consistent basis really does make a difference. — Janette Peggs

It's a blessing to see Colin smile and I enjoy the time we have together. — Steven Williams

This experience is humbling and makes me appreciate things more. I hope that my time with Jes'son has made an impact on his life or outlook. He has made an impact on mine for sure. — Aaron Settle

It feels good knowing that I was showing up for someone who doesn't have a lot of people in her life who consistently show up. — Michelle Taylor

I enjoy time with Trinity and am excited to see how our relationship evolves as she grows. My sincere hope is that the time we spend together will be something she remembers fondly as she gets older. — Ann Williams Members

I feel like I really connected with Colton. He is opening up and shares his goals, interests and struggles. I even got him to smile alot!! I think he has fun and looks forward to hanging out with me. — Jason Thompson

Education Elevators has been a huge blessing to our students. Elevators have helped to boost students’ motivation in the classroom. They act as role models and build relationships that have helped build our students’ self-esteem. Elevators have also strengthened the school community to help our students foster a sense of belonging and help to make them feel special! Research says that a student needs one caring adult in their lives in order for them to be successful. The Elevators try to be this person. They help make the west side the best side! -Destiny Spencer, Principal