ICEARY 2017 – Outstanding Student Nomination Attachment
Yvette Hicks, MSW
High Mount School Social Worker
Swansea, IL 62226
Briefly describe why the student was referred to an alternative school or intervention.
Skyshauna Lowery is one of 23 students that attend my weekly Academic Advisement Program
(AAP) for middle school students here at High Mount School. AAP is a class designed to
equipped students with decision making skills, goal development, drug education, and
character development for the middle school population. Students attend this class once a
week for 32 weeks. During our first class I undoubtedly recognized Skyshauna potential, as
well, admired her determination to overcome the many obstacles she has endured.
One morning upon my arrival to work I learned that Skyshauna attempted suicide over the
weekend and was currently hospitalized. The hospital’s case managers contacted me to
solicited support developing SkyShauna case management plans. Additionally her mental
health issues combined with families struggles only magnified the adversities Skyshuana was
battling to overcome and she lost hope.
The next week I learned Skyshauna was facing time in jail for an assault in which charges were
filed. Again, I was contacted and asked if I could help develop restorative interventions relating
to her involvement with juvenile courts.
Each week I was faced with a variety of case management supports to ensure Skyshauna
received the various strategies of success. I am happy to report six months of restorative
practice strategies and SkyShauna is a youth mentor; she is a strong voice for students
struggling with mental health issues, she facilitates strategies to ensure students with mental
health issues understand the warning signs. She has completed and released from the juvenile
justice system and has plans to become an integral part of St. Clair County Teen Court Juror
once she enters high school next year. She has plans to attend college and has become a voice
and role model for at-risk students.
Skyshauna does not see any of her struggles as barriers. She is a true reflection of hope,
strength, and determination.