Circle of Hope

BY DIANA MURILLO,
MARKETING SPECIALIST

Inspired by a staff member who had a profound impact on her in junior high, Megan Jones grew up with a goal to help youth.

“After driving by the Modesto office and seeing the CHS logo, I knew immediately I was going to work here,” Megan stated.

Megan applied for the Student Assistance Program (SAP) in 2022, interviewed and got a position as a Student Assistance Specialist (SAS).

In her new role, Megan would provide short-term education, prevention and intervention services to students K-12; imparting essential life, social, and coping skills, she would be addressing critical topics such as family issues, anger management, and anxiety.

During her job training, Megan learned about a fellow SAS who had dedicated over two decades to La Loma Junior High School, Megan’s former school. To her surprise, this SAS turned out to be Ada Ramos – the person who guided her through challenging times as a teen!

Megan approached Ada, expressing her profound gratitude for the hope and guidance she received years ago. “I told her, ‘you have no idea how much you changed my life and gave me the hope I didn’t have. Now here I am to pay it forward’.”

Megan recalls being in seventh grade at La Loma and experiencing many challenges. Encouraged by a friend, Megan began attending sessions where she shared her battles with depression and bullying at school, things she had never told an adult about.

“Having an adult validate what I was feeling reassured me and gave me hope. It made me realize that I wanted to do the same for others.”

Today, Megan fills her office with coloring books, positive affirmations and painting supplies. She wants students to know that her room is a safe space where they can feel comfortable expressing themselves. Megan forges meaningful connections with her students, empathizing and relating to their stories.

Megan’s journey comes full circle as she shares her story to raise awareness of the impact CHS had on her life. Megan stays connected with Ada, whom she considers a mentor, and aspires to be a guiding light for students, just as Ada was for her.

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