Melissa Estrada, Community Schools Coordinator at Hesperia High School, shared her journey from being the first in her family to attend college to becoming a counselor. She highlighted the importance of community partnerships, mentioning key partners like IHP, Desert Mountain Children's Center, and Providence St. Mary's Hospital. Estrada emphasized the need for intentional collaboration, removing barriers, and meeting families where they are. She discussed the impact of their services, including peer tutoring, physical health support, and mental health counseling, which have reduced absenteeism and improved student well-being. Estrada also stressed the importance of networking and continuous learning in community school initiatives.