Alaska Afterschool Superhero 2024

Shellie Worsfold

Site Coordinator for PYDAP CHILL program, Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula, CHILL Program at Chapman, Razdolna, Voznesenka, Homer, AK 

Shellie is characterized by her exceptional organizational skills and her ability to orchestrate projects and activities from inception to completion. She ensures that learning objectives are clearly defined, necessary supplies are gathered, procedures are well-communicated, and appropriate supports are in place for student success. Under her guidance, the programming offered are engaging, foster academic vocabulary, encourage teamwork, include frustration management, and a sense of responsibility for learning environments, all while ensuring a fun experience for students. 

Shellie’s compassion for handling challenging situations are evident in her interactions with students. She holds them accountable for their actions while providing them with understanding and guidance on emotional regulation techniques. Her approach has not only positively impacted the individual student but also set an example for others within the program, demonstrating the importance of boundaries and accountability in fostering a positive learning environment. 

In her role as Site Coordinator, Shellie utilizes her skills and teaching experience to support afterschool staff in enhancing their professional skills. Through her mentorship and role modeling, program quality across all sites continues to improve, providing enriching learning experiences for attending youth.  

Shellie’s recent collaborations with the University of Fairbanks EPSCoR program exemplifies her dedication to providing opportunities for students. Her meticulous planning and logistical coordination enabled a group of afterschool students to participate in the Science Olympiad Competition, inspiring and empowering them in the field of STEM. Her efforts were instrumental in ensuring a smooth and successful experience for all involved, demonstrating her invaluable contribution to the program. 

Nominated by: Jane Beck, Executive Director; Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula & Aidan McMurrer, Academic Coach; Project GRAD Kenai Peninsula