Empowering Families, Transforming Lives: Letty Bernal's Mission at Ector County ISD's Community Outreach Center

Letty Bernal, the newly appointed Director of Student Support Services at Ector County ISD's Community Outreach Center, is on a mission to make a lasting impact on the lives of students and families in need. With decades of experience in the field, Bernal is poised to lead the center's efforts in addressing the growing challenges faced by the community, from homelessness to academic support.

Bridging the Gap, Empowering the Underserved

Addressing the Rise in Homelessness and Unaccompanied Youth

Since taking on her new role, Bernal has hit the ground running, tackling the pressing issue of homelessness and unaccompanied youth within the district. The center has seen a significant increase in the number of families and students in need, with 690 families and 1,120 students identified as homeless under the federal McKinney-Vento Act. This represents a 100-student increase from the previous year, underscoring the growing need for the center's services.Bernal and her team are working tirelessly to provide support and resources to these vulnerable individuals. They focus on connecting families with temporary living situations, whether it's doubling up in RVs, motels, or other temporary arrangements. Additionally, the center is addressing the needs of unaccompanied youth, those who are not living with their parents for various reasons, such as being kicked out, pushed out, or choosing to leave due to family conflicts or other issues. These students, often aged 14 or older, are a top priority for the center, as Bernal and her team work to ensure they have a safe place to stay and the necessary support to complete their education.

Fostering Connections and Providing Comprehensive Support

The Community Outreach Center's efforts extend beyond just addressing homelessness. Bernal and her team are dedicated to connecting families and students with a wide range of community resources, from counseling and disability services to domestic violence support and housing assistance. They maintain a comprehensive referral system, ensuring that those in need can easily navigate the available options and find the help they require.In addition to connecting families with external resources, the center also provides direct support within the Ector County ISD. This includes tracking student attendance and working closely with campus-based social service specialists to identify and address any barriers to education. Bernal and her team are not just focused on the immediate needs of their clients but also on their long-term success, striving to reengage students in their education and help them envision a brighter future.

Empowering Families through Innovative Programs

The Community Outreach Center's commitment to supporting families extends beyond basic services. Bernal and her team have implemented innovative programs to address the unique challenges faced by their clients. One such program is the free parenting program, which offers evidence-based strategies to reduce behavioral and domestic violence issues. This program allows parents to participate at their own pace, either in person or over the phone, providing them with the tools and resources they need to create a more stable and nurturing home environment.Additionally, the center has partnered with Souls for Soles to provide 1,000 pairs of shoes to students in need, ensuring that they have the necessary supplies to attend school with dignity and confidence. This initiative, which will be implemented in both the fall and spring semesters, is a testament to the center's dedication to addressing the holistic needs of the students and families it serves.

Fostering Connections and Empowering the Community

Bernal's passion for her work is evident in her unwavering commitment to the students and families she serves. She recognizes the importance of building strong connections and fostering a sense of community, as she believes that these elements are crucial to the long-term success of the individuals and families the center supports.Bernal's goal is to reach more students, reengage them in their education, and help them envision a brighter future. She understands that many of the students she works with are living in the present, focused on immediate challenges, and may not be considering the long-term implications of their decisions. By connecting them with resources and opportunities, Bernal and her team aim to inspire these students to think beyond their current circumstances and unlock their full potential.As Bernal continues to lead the Community Outreach Center, her unwavering dedication and innovative approach to supporting the community are sure to make a lasting impact on the lives of those she serves. Through her tireless efforts, Bernal is not only empowering families but also transforming the future of the Ector County ISD community.