This week we recognize and thank our School Social Workers. They are a vital part of our schools and help connect the dots in so many ways.
Care * Listen * Love * Advocate * Problem-Solve * Counsel * Teach * Inspire * Support * Educate * Collaborate * Assist
Our Social Workers do all of this and more each day on our journey together working with our PORT students and families. Reach out and thank your Social Worker today.
Lisa Whiteman Bongiovi, ASK:
She has been a school social worker for 33 years, 16 years at Port. She attended LeMoyne College and earned a B.S. in Psychology and a Master's in Social Work from Syracuse University. She enjoys being a social worker because she gets to work with awesome kids and be in classrooms to teach about character, diversity, tolerance, and safety. Every day is different! "When I think of Port Pride, I think of community!"
***
Kari Venetis, HBE:
She has been a school social worker since 2011 and has worked in PORT schools since 2015. Kari earned her master's degree from Adelphi University. She enjoys being a school social worker because she gets to see students grow academically, socially, and emotionally over the years. "It is a beautiful process to watch kids grow and develop and I am proud to be a small part of this. When I think of Port Pride, I think of our community and how everyone supPORTs each other and strives to help others be their best!"
***
Mackenzie Muller, HBE:
She has been a school social worker for 6 years and 2 years in Port schools. Mackenzie earned her B.S. in Psychology from Oneonta and her Master's in Social Work from Marywood University. She loves being a social worker because she gets to help make our district a positive learning environment and a place where families feel they can get what they need from the community. "Port Pride means to me being proud to represent the community by giving your best every day!"
***
Erin Lehn, PJMS:
She has been a school social worker for 17 years, all in Port Jervis. Erin earned her Bachelor's in Social Work from West Chester University and her Master's in Clinical Social Work from Widener University. She enjoys being a social worker because she has the opPORTunity to share in someone else's journey and empower them to help themselves. This brings joy to her heart!
***
Jennifer Grismer, PJHS:
She has been a social worker in PORT schools for 10 years and a social worker for her whole career. She earned her B.A. And master's in Social work from the University of Michigan. #GoBigBlue. Mrs. Grismer likes being a school social worker in Port because it gives her the opPORTunity to provide students with what she always hopes is an impactful connection. She is motivated that she can guide, support, listen, and in a general way, have a meaningful, positive influence on students and families. "To me, Port Pride means believing in the resiliency of our collective spirit, productive collaborations, and positive connections!"
Happy School Social Worker Week! Thank you! #GoPort!