Welcome Walzem families! My name is Nelly M. Alvarez and I am excited to return to Walzem as the Family Specialist.  I grew up in a neighborhood similar to the Walzem area, and thus, it feels like going home every day that I am here.  I graduated from the University of California, Irvine with a B.A. in Criminology, Law & Society. I also completed a Dual Masters program at Loma Linda University for Social Work and Criminal Justice.  I completed my teaching credential program at National University in 2021, and a Master in Education in Inspired Teaching and Learning in June 2022. I have over fifteen years experience working with children and families.  I worked as a child welfare social worker for about nine years, and as a social worker supervisor for about four years.  I have also worked as a Substitute Teacher in K-8 schools for about four years.  I love to read, write, travel, and spend time with my husband and two children.  I am excited to continue to work at Walzem as the Family Specialist.  I am extremely grateful that the parents, community members, and staff have been so welcoming to me.  I recognize that your time is priceless, and thus, I thank you for gifting it to me by coming to all the Family Engagement events. I am truly passionate about the work that I get to do in this position.  I look forward to continue to work together with the parents, students, community, and teachers in order to support our Walzem students and families in any way that I can.  Please, do not hesitate to contact me!