Alexandra came to us when she was in the ninth grade. We felt very protective of her. and we tried to create a safe environment for her. She's been with us since the beginning and she came to us very shy. I didn't believe in myself becuase I was like struggling with mental health. We would all just gather round her. We were her village and then gradually as the years went by she got stronger and stronger and happier and happier and made friends. It's been fun watching her grow becuase this year I would say she's our senior leader. Winfree has really helped her come out of her shell. She's also a very good artist. She's made some for me. I still have her artwork with me and I cherish that. Another thing about Alex is her family is so important to her, Alexandra's brother Jesus is here this year so that's been fun to watch the slight brother-sister rivalry. He thinks he can graduate next year and I'm helping him to make that happen. It's like having a mom and going to school with your mom. And I'm really proud of him becuase he's really working hard. I'm really happy for her you know I'm going to miss her. We're a really close family and I'm really thankful becuase they believed in me when I didn't and now I'm really happy that I'm making them proud. Alex has challenged herself to break out of her comfort zone and the best part is today she seeing it's all paid off. She's walking across the stage, she's amongst friends, continue as you are, you are awesome, you are wonderful, you are a joy... I mean it when I say I'm team Alex. I am team Alex for life.
