SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. - BridgeValley Community and Technical College is excited to announce its new partnership with the Education Elevators initiative, a program dedicated to elevating the abilities and aspirations of elementary school students through mentorship and community engagement. As part of this partnership, Police Chief Basra Fakhir will serve as an official "Elevator," representing the college and providing invaluable mentorship to students in need.

Education Elevators is a West Virginia-based, non-profit organization that partners businesses with local elementary schools to match their employees with students who need mentors, role models, academic support, and friendship. Volunteers, known as Elevators, from the partner business work directly with students in need of one-on-one support. These Elevators share their interests, passions, and experiences, opening students to new possibilities and inspiring a greater passion for learning. Whether engaging in reading, games, sports, arts & crafts, or other fun activities, Elevators help build confidence and curiosity in students, and in turn, students expose Elevators to new perspectives.

The Education Elevators program plays a key role in shaping a brighter future for West Virginia by addressing challenges such as the impact of foster care, the effects of parental incarceration, and home challenges related to socio-economic hardships. Through one-on-one mentoring, the program provides students with the support they need to improve their academic performance, develop better behavior both at home and at school, and enhance their emotional well-being, ultimately fostering a sense of confidence and hope for the future.

Dr. Casey K. Sacks, President of BridgeValley, shared her excitement about the collaboration, "BridgeValley is proud to be part of the Education Elevators initiative, a program that connects elementary school students with caring community leaders. With Police Chief Basra Fakhir as our Elevator, we are excited to provide these students with valuable mentorship and support that will help them succeed academically, emotionally, and socially."

By collaborating with Education Elevators, the college is helping foster long-term improvement in our communities, empowering students to build confidence, develop essential life skills, and achieve their full potential.

For more information about the Education Elevators initiative, visit https://www.educationelevators.org.