Student Spotlight: Jaeda

The Juvenile Court and Community Schools student representative on the San Diego County Board of Education in May was Jaeda, a senior at Project SAFE (Supportive Advocacy for Female Education).

Jaeda was selected for her determination, curiosity, and forward thinking. She displays a strong work ethic that helps her succeed at school and in life.

“She leans into challenges and turns tough subjects into strengths, and shows up every day committed to her growth,” said Principal Dr. Floyd North.

At school, Jaeda is part of the BLOOM girls mentorship group at Project SAFE, building social and emotional skills, and she uses yoga to stay grounded. Her involvement with the Moxie Theatre adds another dimension to her creative expression. She’s already thinking ahead, taking a stress management course at Palomar College to better understand herself and prepare for college-level work.

Outside the classroom, she jumps into opportunities completing the Leadership Through the Lens internship with Outside the Lens, earning college credit through UC San Diego, and discovering the power of her own storytelling.

The one-on-one support and caring staff at JCCS has made all the difference for Jaeda, who is graduating this summer.

“If you’ve had a hard life growing up and you’re not in school right now, JCCS can really help you," she said. "They just focus on more than your grades — they pay attention to how you feel, what you’ve been through, and what you need to get back on track. They’ll support and guide you — and constantly reaffirm that you’re capable of more than you think.”

For Jaeda, her teacher Ms. Yolanda has been a driving force behind her success. She shared that she arrived at JCCS lacking motivation and confidence, but found a champion in Ms. Yolanda.

“She saw something in me that I hadn’t yet discovered in myself. She talked to me about what it would take to be a successful student and reminded me that I was capable of more," Jaeda explained. "Little by little, her words pushed me to try, to show up, and to believe I could actually finish. Because of her support, I’m standing where I am now, getting ready to graduate.” 

After graduation, Jaeda plans to study cosmetology at San Diego City College and eventually open her own business specializing in nails and hair.

As part of its efforts to highlight transformational learning experiences for students, the San Diego County Board of Education recognizes a student from Juvenile Court and Community Schools at its regular monthly meeting.