Wherever our students come from, whatever they are going through, MDUSD's SOAR program is here to help

Guest column By Dr. Rosie Reid
MDUSD Program Specialist

In the Mt. Diablo Unified School District, we understand that sometimes our students need a little extra help to be successful in school. Some of our students come to school cold because they don’t have a jacket that fits. Some have had to change schools multiple times due to circumstances beyond their control. Others are facing eviction and aren’t sure where they will sleep next week, where their next meal will come from, or how they will get to school. Wherever our students come from, whatever they are going through, we are here to help. 

The Support Office for Access and Resources (SOAR Program) within the Student Services Department of the Mt. Diablo Unified School District is dedicated to empowering and uplifting students facing unique challenges by providing comprehensive support and resources. Our mission is to ensure that every student, regardless of their circumstances, has equitable access to educational opportunities and the academic, social, and emotional support they need. 

We focus on serving the following student groups:

• McKinney-Vento Students: We assist students experiencing homelessness by offering essential school supplies, tutoring, counseling services, and family support to promote stability and academic success.
• Foster Youth: Our wrap-around services for foster youth and their families include academic assistance, counseling, community resources, and family support, ensuring they have the tools needed to thrive.
• Justice-Involved Youth: We provide tailored support to students involved in the justice system, facilitating their reintegration into the educational environment and promoting positive outcomes.
• Refugee/Newcomer Students: We warmly welcome refugee and newcomer families, helping them navigate new surroundings, providing essential resources, and connecting them with community support to ensure a smooth transition.
• LGBTQIA2+ Students: We create a safe and inclusive environment for LGBTQIA2+ students, offering support and resources that affirm their identities and promote well-being.
• Indian Education Program Youth: In partnership with the American Indian Culture and Education Program, we celebrate Native American culture and support students with resources that honor their heritage.
• Human Trafficking Survivors: We offer specialized support to students affected by human trafficking, addressing their unique needs and promoting recovery and empowerment.

Through collaboration with community partners and a commitment to uplifting students and families, SOAR strives to remove barriers to education, foster resilience, and inspire every student to reach their full potential. 

If you or a family you know could benefit from additional support, reach out to soar@mdusd.org or 925-682-8000 ext. 6242, and we will do our best to help! 

If you would like to donate to the SOAR program, please consider using Venmo @MDUSDSOAR or mailing a check to: SOAR Program, 1026 Mohr Lane, Concord, CA 94518. 
 

MDUSD's SOAR Program staff includes (from left to right) Program Specialist Rosie Reid, Counselor Medaja Elias, Social Work Specialist Vanessa Castillo, Senior Secretary Vicky Conerly, and Resource Worker Evelyn Mercado.