| In elementary and middle school, I had a difficult time making and maintaining valuable friendships. If it weren't for a handful of teachers who acknowledged my feelings and kept me company when I felt like I didn't have anyone to lean on, I'm not sure I would still be here. As I reflect back, I realize now that I was struggling with mental illnesses my entire life and wish there were more resources back then to help me navigate my emotions. Instead I was told that my emotions weren't valid because I was young. I also understand that mental health was a more taboo subject back then. I recently spoke to some educators in Alvin ISD who received grants to implement specific programs in their schools. What really stuck out to me were grants that Sheri Dominique, a counselor at Shirley Dill Brother Elementary School, received to help students who are plagued with anxieties and others who need mentors. She plans to implement her "Mind, Body and Soul" grant by creating calming stations in classrooms and to use the "Bearkat Village" grant to provide a mentoring program for at-risk kids at the school. The "Bearkat Village" grant will allow mentors to focus on helping students in various ways that can include helping pay for a student's lunch or purchasing motivational stickers. Her plans to help these students really struck home for me because of my own mental health struggles. It's amazing to see adults finally acknowledge that kids have their own struggles and need help as well. Had it not been for educators who cared for me growing up similar to how Dominique cares for her students, life would've felt a lot worse. Who is an educator that who inspired you? Are there any educators in Pearland ISD and Alvin ISD who you believe have gone above and beyond? Share your thoughts with me at pooja.bhakta@chron.com. | 
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