Madison Reporter

The Grow Your Own program is an initiative designed to assist SPASD staff in advancing their careers in education. This includes roles such as teachers, counselors, and social workers. The program offers financial assistance and flexibility, allowing participants to work while pursuing their educational goals.

One of the current participants is Dania, the District’s Hispanic Family Liaison. She shared her motivation for joining the program: “I’ve always told the students, ‘You need to get better on purpose. This is for your education, for your future.’ But one day, someone asked me, ‘Dania, how can you tell the kids they need this for their future if you’re not doing it yourself?’” This question prompted her decision to apply. “That day, I decided to apply. This is going to help me get better on purpose,” she said.

Dania is currently in her second year of online studies at UW–Whitewater. She is working towards a bachelor’s degree in Social Work with a minor in Spanish. Her education aims to equip her with tools and resources to better serve families in the community.

Programs like Grow Your Own not only aid individuals in career advancement but also contribute to community improvement. Dania’s journey highlights how investing in personal development can have broader positive impacts.