The goal of this grant is to strengthen my mission as the School Counselor at Sabal Palm Elementary School (SPE). In alignment with the CCPS District School Counseling Mission to identify and reduce barriers to learning while promoting student success, my focus is to help create a school environment where every child feels happy, safe, supported, and eager to learn.
A positive student experience is strengthened by educators who also feel valued and supported. During the 2026–2027 school year, I plan to continue staff wellness initiatives such as Self-Care Bingo and “Coffee with the Counselor.” These efforts provide opportunities to connect with teachers, faculty, and staff, promote wellness and morale, and strengthen partnerships with community organizations such as Champions for Learning.
By investing in the well-being of our educators, we strengthen the entire school community. This grant will help create meaningful opportunities for staff to feel appreciated, connected, and encouraged so they can continue providing the supportive environment our students need to thrive.
“Coffee with the Counselor 2.0” will provide teachers and staff with a safe, welcoming space to pause, recharge, and connect. Hosted in the counseling office, staff will be invited to stop by for a brief check-in—whether for five minutes or fifteen—to enjoy conversation, encouragement, or simply a quiet moment with a fresh cup of coffee.
Each session will also provide helpful resources focused on self-care, coping strategies, counseling updates, and relevant educational news. This initiative is designed to support those who give so much of themselves each day, reminding our educators that their well-being matters and that taking time to recharge strengthens their ability to support and inspire our students.
If awarded, this grant will have a meaningful and lasting impact on staff well-being, connection, and school culture at Sabal Palm Elementary. By supporting the educators who support our students each day, “Coffee with the Counselor 2.0” will help strengthen the entire school community. Benefits include:
Fostering a stronger sense of belonging, connection, and support among SPE staff
Encouraging the exchange of experiences, ideas, resources, and best practices
Increasing awareness of self-care, healthy coping strategies, and available supports
Creating opportunities for collaboration and relationship-building
Strengthening communication across staff and departments
Reducing the stigma associated with seeking help and normalizing conversations about mental health and well-being
Supporting staff morale and helping educators feel valued, appreciated, and encouraged
Promoting a positive and supportive school culture that allows educators to be more present and engaged with students
Creating a ripple effect in which supported educators are better equipped to foster safe, positive, and successful learning environments for every child
Ultimately, investing in the well-being of our educators is an investment in our students. When staff feel connected, supported, and valued, they are better positioned to help students feel the same.
Grant funds will be used to support “Coffee with the Counselor 2.0” by purchasing coffee, beverages, light refreshments, self-care materials, and supplies for staff wellness activities. Funds may also support printed resources and small items that promote connection, encouragement, and staff well-being throughout the 2026–2027 school year. All purchases will directly support the program’s goal of creating a welcoming and supportive space for SPE educators.
