L. E. Willson Elementary School

AIM High Mentoring

Sheffield City Schools

Principal, Mrs. Heather Collum

Superintendent, Dr. Carlos Nelson

AIM High Mentoring is a one-on-one school-based mentoring program funded by a grant through the Children’s Trust Fund and the AL Department of Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention. The program at L. E. Willson Elementary School (LEWES) provided students assistance with social skills, gave them a friend to talk to, and offered help with schoolwork. Students were matched with a positive role model where attention and encouragement were consistently given. Selected students experienced at least two of the following areas: failing/declining grades, difficult parental/guardian relationships, economic deprivation, poor social skills, delinquency, culturally disadvantaged, peer relationships, incarcerated parent/adult in their life, and depression. The AIM High Mentoring Program worked to meet students where they were and advance them individually. The mentor/mentee relationship was matched under careful consideration by the directors and monitored throughout the school year. Students were provided the opportunity to discuss various situations in a safe environment which allowed for personal growth and support. The program impacted the school community as more students sought participation each year. The goal of LEWES administration, along with the AIM High Mentoring Program leaders, was to make a lasting influence on the success of each individual who participated while positively impacting the school district and the community.