Jacqueline Snell, McKinley Middle School Wellness Coordinator Community advocate and advocate for student well-being, took on yet another proactive approach to support students during the holiday season with “A Day of Solace” on December 20, 2023, at the McKinley School of Arts.
An event to address students’ emotional needs and equip them to navigate through the holiday season, Snell gathered a dedicated team of trained local therapists in the “WaterCooler Room”, who donated their time to counsel grieving students. These therapists, who bring expertise in grief, counseled and provided a safe space for students to express their emotions, share their experiences, and receive guidance on coping strategies.
(Photo L to R: Jacqueline Snell, Pasadena Police Department officers Riddle and Domino) “We are here to help students process their grief and develop resilience, to ensure that they get through a challenging time with support and understanding,” stated Snell. “Counseling sessions are crucial in providing emotional support and validate students’ experiences which will help them navigate complex emotions, create new traditions, and build resilience for their ongoing healing and well-being.”
With her extensive Rolodex of supporters, Snell leveraged her contacts, resulting in a swift response from multiple groups and organizations, all eager to contribute to the event’s success.
Grief supporters included:
•Leda Hernandez – Grief Counselor PUSD
•Mia Williams – Foothill Family
•McKinley Counselors and Early Intervention Specialists
Sponsors jumped at the chance to bring joy to the students. Leo Cablayan, a representative of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Pasadena Chapter, brought gifts and said, “This is a much-needed event.” The Dianne E. Watson Center for Compassionate Intervention donated tablets for each student, Pasadena Police Department with Neighborhood Survants donated toys and pizza, and employees from Keck USC donated gift cards.
By facilitating these connections, Snell created a support network that extends beyond the counseling sessions, which will enable students to find strength and solace in their shared experiences.
The brainchild behind “The WaterCooler Room,”—an innovative year-round wellness center embedded within the McKinley School of Arts in the Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD), Snell and supporters brought joy to students who understood they were not alone. “We know we cannot replace their loved ones, but we can be there for them to talk and never feel embarrassed about their feelings. I pray they all know we care for them every day and that they understand the WaterCooler is a safe space to restore.”
According to reports, suicide is the second leading cause of death among U.S. adolescents and young adults. Snell understands the ‘why’ in providing targeted support to help students navigate their emotions and find relief during this sensitive period. By collaborating with mental health professionals PUSD counselors and caseworkers, she created a supportive community where students felt heard, understood, and cared for.
Snell is also the CEO and Board Chair at Jazzy Jam for Empowerment, a non-profit that sponsors, supports, empowers, engages, and brings awareness to relevant social issues and mental health and wellness initiatives within the Pasadena school district. A self-proclaimed first responder to students, she stressed, “If you’re depressed, have anxiety, you’re bereaved, or you cannot focus, we are here for you.”
Jacqueline Snell’s commitment to student wellness and her approach to providing support for grieving students during the holiday season and overall year-round support exemplify her dedication to creating a compassionate and nurturing educational environment.
To learn more about Snell and her advocacy efforts, visit here.
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About Jacqueline Snell
Jacqueline Snell is an advocate for student well-being. She has played a key role in implementing holistic development programs that cater to students’ emotional needs. Her dedication to creating a nurturing educational environment has earned her recognition and praise from students, parents, and the larger community.
About Jazzy Jam
Jazzy Jam for Empowerment was created to model change and sponsor social issues, mental health, and wellness initiatives. Through creative educational programming and training, they serve as a bridge to offer social-emotional care, mental health services, and resources for BIPOC students and families.
Jazzy Jam for Empowerment Corporate & Community Partnerships
Pasadena Unified School District, Pasadena Learns Enrichment Program, The City of Pasadena, Tournament of Roses, Pasadena Police Department, Pasadena Water and Power, Warner Horizon, Macy’s Gives, Becca’s Closet Los Angeles, ATT&T Pioneers, Marriott Courtyard Hotel, Pasadena Parks and Recreation, Los Angeles County Parks and Recreation
Jacqueline Baker on The Unexpected Leader Exclusive Interview(Opens in a new browser tab)
About McKinley Middle School
Our mission is to provide a collaborative learning environment that enables all students to reach their academic and artistic potential. We will accomplish this mission by providing a rigorous curriculum and instruction of the highest quality, utilizing the resources of the school, home, and community. We will maintain high expectations, foster a positive and orderly school environment, and frequently monitor and respond to student needs and progress. Our firm belief is that the integration of academic and artistic training will strengthen students’ character, judgment, and sensitivity.
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