This March we will honor our talented social workers. We hope you will enjoy reading these profiles as much as we enjoyed creating them. Remember, there are hundreds of other social workers who weren’t highlighted here, so make sure to celebrate the ones that you know on social media using #SDPThankASocialWorker!
Gennefer HallWhy did you decide to become a Social Worker?
My decision to become a social worker was deeply rooted in my desire to contribute positively to the lives of others, especially those facing systematic barrier and societal prejudices. I wanted to be a voice for those who felt silenced and marginalized, and to provide support and resources to individuals and families in need.
How did you end up as a Social Worker at SDP?
My social work journey at The School District of Philadelphia began during the pandemic, when I became a School Behavioral Consultant at Martha Washington Academics Plus School.
What is the best part about being a Social Worker?
The best part about being a social worker is creating safe and affirming spaces for individuals of all backgrounds and identities, recognizing the importance of intersectionality in understanding and addressing complex issues that impact our communities.
How do Social Workers improve the lives of their students?
Social workers play a vital role in creating a supportive and nurturing environment for students by addressing various social, emotional and behavioral challenges that may hinder their academic success. We work collaboratively with educators, families and community resources to develop individualized plans and interventions tailored to meet with the unique needs of each student.
What is something you think everyone should know about Social Workers?
One thing I believe everyone should know about social workers, is that our profession is deeply rooted in empathy, resilience and advocacy. We are committed to empowering individuals and communities, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, and strive to create positive change through compassion, understanding and action.
Tell us about any current unique programs or initiatives you have created or worked on to support students?
As a social worker, I have had the opportunity to develop and collaborate on several unique programs and initiatives aimed at supporting students. One initiative I’ve recently created is a monthly mental health newsletter that is distributed school-wide to help educate students about mental health and wellness. Additionally, I’ve promoted the use of Kooth, a mental wellness app designed for students to utilize at their discretion. While at Martha Washington, I supported the STEP team with various initiatives that fostered parent engagement in the school community, community partnerships for resources, as well as fun school-wide events that focuses on fostering connections and relationships among students, staff and families.
Devon SmithWhy did you decide to become a Social Worker?
I became a SW to help those in my community.
How did you end up as a Social Worker at SDP?
While in grad school I did my internship in the Southeast Delco School District and I realized I wanted to become a school social worker. Once the STEP program was implemented within the SDP, that provided me the opportunity to work within the SDP.
What is the best part about being a Social Worker?
The best part about being a SW, is seeing your clients thrive. Realizing how resilient they are, especially the children I work with. It is such a rewarding field.
How do Social Workers improve the lives of their students?
SW’s improve the lives of the students by showing up, being present and listening to them.
What is something you think everyone should know about Social Workers?
The SW field is HUGE! We are everywhere from the government to local community centers. We are lawyers, politicians, and professors. It is truly a rewarding field.
Tell us about any current unique programs or initiatives you have created or worked on to support students?
I have worked alongside students and staff with creating the Black Student and Staff Union at my school.
Katharine CunninghamWhy did you decide to become a Social Worker?
I wanted to become more knowledgeable and effective at doing what I love most–working with children and families.
How did you end up as a Social Worker at SDP?
I heard about the STEP program and loved the idea of providing support to students during the school day–something that I wish I had growing up.
What is the best part about being a Social Worker?
Getting to know awesome, creative, kind, and brilliant kids!
How do Social Workers improve the lives of their students?
We build relationships, provide a safe space for students to be heard, and help students develop the skills to be their best, most authentic selves.
What is something you think everyone should know about Social Workers?
Social workers work in all kinds of places–designing programs for kids, running businesses, providing mental health therapy, working in hospitals, connecting communities to resources, and more. We’re everywhere!
Tell us about any current unique programs or initiatives you have created or worked on to support students?
Currently implementing “Lunch Buddies”– geared toward supporting SEL during lunch and recess.
Madeleine GatesWhy did you decide to become a Social Worker?
I decided to become a social worker because I believe in improving access to resources and mental health care for everyone
How did you end up as a Social Worker at SDP?
A friend of mine shared about a great program called STEP. I was immediately drawn to the structure of the program and having the ability to provide support for students, both individually and on a school-wide level.
What is the best part about being a Social Worker?
The best part of being a social worker is that it is so versatile and you can work with any population of people.
How do Social Workers improve the lives of their students?
Social workers improve the lives of their students by offering support during difficult times, helping them feel heard, and by being strong advocates.
What is something you think everyone should know about Social Workers?
I think everyone should know that Social Workers value and will advocate for social justice!
Tell us about any current unique programs or initiatives you have created or worked on to support students?
I work with a group of seniors who are “off-track” for graduation, to support them in making sure they can graduate on time At our school, I work with the Philadelphia Zoo, that provides hands on science learning for students as well as exposure to career opportunities related to fields including; animal care, environmental justice, and biology.