We Belong in College

Hayward, CA

Grant Amount

$20,000

Year Awarded

2025-2026

Project Coordinator

Elaine Whitney

Grant Type

Team

Local Association

Alameda County Teachers Association

Focus Area

Career and Technical Education

About the Project

We Belong in College is a student-inspired, teacher-led initiative at Opportunity Academy that empowers students to access college courses within the supportive environment of their high school classrooms. Focused on dual enrollment, the program enables students to fulfill high school requirements, take career and technical education courses, and complete general education credits toward associate or bachelor’s degrees. The project will build confidence for disengaged high school students, many of whom are between the ages of 16–24 and will be the first in their families to attend college.

Meet the Project Coordinator

Elaine Whitney

My name is Elaine Whitney and I am a teacher with Opportunity Academy of Alameda County Office of Education. We are an alternative education school that serves youth and adults, primarily 16-26 years old. I have worked in alternative education for two decades. Our students have incredible resilience and determination. They are returning to high school to complete unfinished business. The inspiration for this project is our amazing students. Our project will bridge the gaps between student potential and student outcomes. Our students will be invited to attend college and experience the belonging that supports post-secondary success.

Hayward, CA