Grade: 12 School: Seaside High School District: Monterey Peninsula USD ACSA region: 10 There was a time when Monique Blackwell felt like the principal’s office was her classroom. That changed in 7th grade when her teacher, Mr. Strenfel, took the time to build a relationship with Monique. By the time she reached Seaside High School, Monique was taking AP and college courses, interning at the District Attorney’s Office and engaged in activities like Black Student Alliance, competitive cheer, and Upward Bound, a college prep program for students with the potential to be first-generation college graduates.  During a 2019-20 Back to School Kick-off Day, Monique stood in front of the nearly 1,500 staff members of Monterey Peninsula Unified School District and shared her story. “Here at MPUSD, I have had a handful of teachers that really expected me to do well and I will forever appreciate them for their belief in me,” she told staff. “I recently learned that others expecting greatness from you will never be enough unless you expect it for yourself. And I expect nothing but greatness for myself this school year so that I can succeed in my future.” What are your hobbies and interests? Favorite subjects: English and history. Hobbies: During high school, I participated in clubs such as BSA (Black Student Alliance), National Honors Society, and GEAR UP. I enjoy writing, listening to spoken word, and music. What has been the biggest challenge you’ve overcome to get where you are today? The most significant challenge that I have faced throughout high school has been my brother being released from prison after not seeing him for almost six years. This challenge helped me figure out what I wanted to do in my future. I figured that if I did not like something in the justice system, I would fix it. His release had a huge effect on my ability to learn and stay focused because my brain was always thinking about my brother and his safety in our city. I lost focus and it reflected on my report cards. When I had actually seen how his release affected me, I had to make changes. I talked to my counselors at Upward Bound about how I felt. I set goals, got involved in new activities, and did things that challenged myself, such as joining clubs like BSA, applying to internships, and getting more involved in the school. This challenge has helped me find my motivation and career interests. What educator helped you along the way and how did they help you? Many educators have helped me along the way. There wasn’t one specific person/group that had helped me more than others. I got counseling, tutoring support, and many chances to build my volunteer hours by my school, Seaside High, and programs such as Upward Bound and GEAR UP. Because of the educators from these programs, I considered myself a very competitive college applicant. All 11 schools I applied to accepted me. Many educators have helped me get past the moments that appeared to last forever.  What advice would you have for students facing similar situations? I would tell students that you have the ability to create your own path. Whether that path is different or similar to others. As long as you are happy with yourself. What does it mean to win this award? It means a lot to win this award. It is a blessing to see other people take an interest in my future/education. It makes me realize how much support I have gotten from others to get me where I am today. I will be forever grateful.