Alaysha Greene, a proud graduate of Champions For Learning’s Take Stock in Children program, is dedicated to serving her lifetime home and community as she currently teaches third grade at Herbert Cambridge Elementary School in Collier County. She hopes to instill a lifelong love for learning in her students, inspiring them to dream big, like she did at their age.
While she was growing up, Alaysha’s parents emphasized the importance of education, despite not having the opportunity to attend college themselves. Alaysha had high hopes of one day being a first-generation college student but lacked the clarity on how to not only navigate the application and selection processes but also how to afford tuition.
Champions For Learning’s Take Stock in Children program is an academically focused mentoring program that empowers students to graduate from high school and overcome financial and experiential barriers to higher education. Once she was enrolled in the program, Alaysha participated in an array of opportunities, including college workshops, scholarship assistance, and campus tours, that she otherwise would not have had access to. As part of the program, she was also matched with a caring mentor, who she met throughout all four years of high school. Mrs. Tammi, Alaysha’s mentor, is a retired teacher who provided consistent support and guidance. Mrs. Tammi not only became a cherished member of Alaysha’s family but the two continue to meet regularly.
“Mrs. Tammi’s unwavering support and invaluable advice propelled me forward, encouraging me to always strive for excellence and be the best version of myself,” said Alaysha.
Students enrolled in Take Stock in Children will earn a two-year Florida Prepaid College Foundation Scholarship to cover their first 60 college credits at the Florida state college rate when they graduate from high school. Alaysha also gained the resources necessary to secure additional scholarships and is currently debt-free, despite having earned both her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and master’s degree in Special Education from Florida Gulf Coast University.
As a current teacher in Collier County, Alaysha is grateful for the additional support that Champions For Learning offers through our Educator Programs: Classroom Grants and Golden Apple. “Champions For Learning not only changed my life when I was a student but also equipped me with the tools to excel in my profession,” she said. “This support empowers educators to continue making a positive impact in the lives of our students and the community at large.”
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