Learning Different Alliance

The Learning Different Alliance is a community education partner working together to inspire the success of all students.

Do great minds really think alike, or is the saying an idiom that leads to an adverse misconception? The truth is that no two minds think alike, and there are always different perceptions of an identical situation because our brains process events, information, and trauma asymmetrically. Riverside County youth are in a mental health crisis, as indicated by Desert Healthcare District's 2021 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) and Kaiser's 2022 CHNA correspondingly report a rate of 19.2 deaths by suicide per 100,000 in the Coachella Valley, as compared to the state of California 11.0 deaths by suicide per 100,000. Additionally, Kaiser's CHNA concluded that mental health not only seems to be a prominent health need but there is also a significant shortage of providers and resources for those who need help. Since 2021, The Learning Different Alliance has provided parents, students, educators, and community partners an equitable and inclusive space to discuss rising juvenile mental health concerns, ascertain new tools, find essential resources, and garner vital local peer and professional support.

Testimonials

"Like so many other teachers, I was frustrated because I knew that some of my students were capable, but falling through the cracks because of learning disabilities. Working with Ms. Cummings has given me real tools to help these students succeed without overwhelming me with more work!" - Claude C.

"My son went from facing academic suspension to the Dean's List in 13 weeks. His confidence skyrocked after learning how he learns. I am so grateful to Ms. Cummings!" ​~Jessice F.

"She gave me my son back. I honestly didn't think he would graduate from high school - and I was losing him to depression, which he covered up with anger and acting out. Jennifer has given me my whole family back. Joey graduated with a B+ average. And best of all, he feels great about himself. He stopped his destructive behaviors and is now going after his dreams."
~Vicky W.

"I was always scared in school, especially if I had to read out loud. Ms. Cummings showed me how just turning the book upside down helps me to read! I don't feel like the dumbest kid in class anymore. I'm even sort of starting to like school." ~Alex J.