Launched in February 2025, this wellness support initiative invited Sierra Vista Middle School girls in grades 6 through 8 to participate in a series of three themed gatherings focused on social-emotional learning and personal growth. Held after school, the voluntary sessions created a warm and inviting atmosphere—complete with hands-on activities, meaningful conversations, mini lessons, snacks,and decorations. Each event welcomed 8 to 12 students, many of whom returned time and again.
“Serina and I were talking and we were thinking—we really need more support for some of the girls, for them to feel seen, safe, and appreciated,” said Pak, who has taught at Sierra Vista Middle School for more than five years and has been an educator for 16 years. “It’s about helping them learn more about themselves and each other.”
The idea grew from observations and needs identified through Tier 2 interventions, beginning with seventh graders and eventually expanding to include sixth and eighth graders. The educators intentionally built each session around common social and emotional challenges they saw students facing on campus.
The first workshop, held in February, embraced a “Galentines” theme, helping students explore healthy friendships and positive relationships. The girls created crafts, while reflecting on the importance of connection, respect, and kindness among peers.
In March, the focus shifted to self-esteem and positivity, aiming to help students build confidence and treat themselves with compassion. Thanks to a partnership with Baldwin Park Adult & Community Education (BPACE), senior students from the cosmetology program generously donated salon services, including hair styling, makeup, and manicures. The experience allowed the girls to feel pampered while also being exposed to local career paths beyond the traditional college route.
“It was a really special event,” Pak said. “The talented BPACE Cosmetology seniors added a special touch helping our girls feel confident and beautiful inside and out. The event focused on self-esteem and we were able to create an uplighting space where every woman felt valued and empowered. Most importantly, it gave students a chance to explore different options after high school."
The final session in April was themed “The Last Rodeo”, a fun, cowgirl-inspired send off before the end of the school year. The group focused on empathy and understanding emotions—like anger, sadness, joy, excitement, and more. The students created vision boards, reflecting on their feelings and future goals.
Elizalde, who has been an Instructional Aide at Sierra Vista Middle for 10 years, said the progress has been evident. “Since the first session, I’ve seen a lot of improvement—girls have been opening up, sharing about their struggles, and working to better themselves,” she said. “Seeing that they are making an effort to utilize the strategies they’re learning about is so rewarding. Also, letting our girls know and feel that there are people on SVMS’ campus who care about them and their emotional growth goes a long way.”
Elizalde, a Baldwin Park native and Baldwin Park High School graduate, brings her own student experience full circle as she looks ahead at starting her teaching credential program. “All through high school, I was involved in ASB which kept me connected. I always knew I wanted to stay connected and give back to students in the same way my teachers inspired me,” she said.
Students have shown both educators how the sessions have made them feel more connected, confident, and safe—and that despite being on the same campus, they might have never met other girls if not for the group.
Pak credits the support of her own family, who helped with the majority of the donations, and hopes the program will return next year, pending funding. “Making connections, spending more quality time, and engaging with at-promise students—those are the things that make the biggest difference,” she said.
While the program has reached just a small group, the impact has been far-reaching. Staff has noted a decrease in behavior issues and an increase in student self-awareness, positive decision-making, and peer connection.
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