Pasadena, California native Jacqueline Snell is a proud mother of two and a caregiver of loved ones. Her goal is to prevent Black students from getting caught up in the school-to-prison pipeline.
Some efforts to address the pipeline to prison focus on systemic reforms, including changes in education policies, community-based interventions, and addressing the underlying social and economic factors that contribute to crime and incarceration. The goal is to create a more equitable and just society that seeks to prevent individuals from being funneled into the criminal justice system.
Jacqueline has created programs and projects that support students, providing a safe space for them to thrive and face their problems head-on.
A compassionate youth advocate driven by her own challenging upbringing and the desire for acceptance, she launched the “WaterCooler Room,” a transformative initiative providing a safe space for students. Drawing from her personal experiences, Jacqueline Snell’s innovative project aims to create an inclusive environment where students can find solace, support, and a sense of belonging.
As a child growing up in an environment where she just wanted to be accepted by her loved ones, Jacqueline understood firsthand the profound impact a safe space can have on an individual’s well-being and self-esteem. Motivated by her own struggles and the longing for acceptance from her loved ones, she embarked on a mission to develop a sanctuary for students facing similar challenges.
The “WaterCooler Room” is a testament to Jacqueline Snell’s unwavering commitment to nurturing emotional well-being and fostering social connections among students. It serves as a refuge where students can freely express themselves, engage in open dialogue, and find comfort and support from their peers.
Her desire to create a safe haven for students stems from the belief that every individual deserves a chance to be heard, respected, and embraced. By sharing her personal journey and vulnerability, Jacqueline Snell empowers students to embrace their own stories and find strength in their uniqueness.
Through the “WaterCooler Room,” Jacqueline Snell offers not only a safe space but also a platform for students to build relationships and foster personal growth. By encouraging authentic conversations and promoting empathy, this initiative becomes a catalyst for students’ self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment.
The impact of the “WaterCooler Room” has been profound, with students reporting enhanced self-esteem, improved relationships, and a greater sense of belonging. Jacqueline Snell’s initiative has become a beacon of hope, resonating with students who yearn for acceptance and understanding.
The “WaterCooler Room” also offers a place where students can take a break, unwind, and recharge. It provides an opportunity for relaxation and stress relief, helping students maintain a healthy school-life balance and reduce burnout.
The exchange of ideas, discussion of academic topics, and sharing of knowledge in a more relaxed and collaborative setting encourage peer-to-peer learning, critical thinking, and the exploration of different perspectives.
Students also find emotional support in the room. It allows them to express their feelings, share challenges they may be facing, and receive empathy and understanding from their peers. This emotional support can positively impact their mental well-being and provide a sense of belonging within the school community.
Interactions in the watercooler room can also foster collaboration and creativity among students. It provides an environment where they can engage in spontaneous discussions, brainstorm ideas, and work together on projects or initiatives. This can enhance their problem-solving skills, stimulate innovation, and encourage teamwork.
It’s important to note that the implementation of safe spaces may vary depending on each school’s resources and specific needs. Successful implementation often involves collaboration between teachers, administrators, counselors, and students to ensure that the spaces are effective and supportive for all students.
Jaqueline has felt the love from parents, teachers, administration, and counselors throughout this journey. Her rolodex of supporters allows her to receive swift responses from multiple groups and organizations whenever she plans an event.
Last year, she implemented an event to support students during the holiday season with “A Day of Solace” at the McKinley School of Arts. An event that addressed students’ emotional needs and helped them to navigate through the holiday season, Snell gathered a dedicated team of trained local therapists who donated their time to counsel grieving students. These therapists, who were grief experts, counseled and provided a safe space for students to express their emotions, share their experiences, and receive guidance on coping strategies.
Sponsors jumped at the chance to bring joy to the students as well. Leo Cablayan, a representative of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Pasadena Chapter, The Dianne E. Watson Center for Compassionate Intervention donated tablets for each student, the Pasadena Police Department with Neighborhood Survants donated toys and pizza, and employees from Keck USC donated gift cards.
By facilitating these connections, Snell created a support network that extended beyond the counseling sessions, which enabled students to find strength and solace in their shared experiences.
According to reports, suicide is the second leading cause of death among U.S. adolescents and young adults. Snell understands the ‘why’ in providing targeted support to help students navigate their emotions and find relief during this sensitive period. By collaborating with mental health professionals, PUSD counselors, and caseworkers, she created a supportive community where students felt heard, understood, and cared for.
Snell is also the CEO and Board Chair at Jazzy Jam for Empowerment, a non-profit that sponsors, supports, empowers, engages, and brings awareness to relevant social issues and mental health and wellness initiatives within the Pasadena school district. A self-proclaimed first responder to students, she is finding ways to make life easier for the youth.
One initiative through Jazzy Jam for Empowerment is the Jazzy-Jam Glam prom dress and suit giveaway sponsored by Subaru and Courtyard by Marriott Old Pasadena. This prom dress and suit giveaway initiative, generously sponsored by Subaru and Courtyard by Marriott Old Pasadena, aims to provide an unforgettable prom experience for young individuals whose parents are facing financial challenges.
Jacqueline Snell’s commitment to student wellness exemplified her dedication to creating a compassionate and nurturing educational environment.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
