East Harlem Social Worker Supports Students & Families Beyond School Walls

East Harlem, NY — Back-to-school season brings a mix of excitement and nerves — for students, parents and staff alike. Thankfully East Harlem is home to everyday school heroes who help make the transition smoother and the school year a little brighter.

From teachers and tutors to bus drivers, cafeteria staff, crossing guards and more, these caring individuals bring steady support and positivity to our schools. To recognize their many contributions — big and small — Patch has partnered with T-Mobile to salute the unsung heroes of back-to-school.

This submission comes from Cindy Rizzo, who nominated Jennifer Schwam, MSW of P.S. 146 Anna Short School.

What is the school hero’s name?

Jennifer Schwam, MSW

Where does this school hero work?

P.S. 146 Anna Short School

Please describe why this individual is a hero at your school.

Ms. Schwam is a clinical social worker who does mandated counseling for students pre-K thru 5th grade. Every parent of her students gets her cell phone number. She takes their calls from school and from home day and night. She makes sure that parents have the resources they need, whether they are undocumented or living in shelters. She looks after the members of her school community, especially the secretaries, paraprofessionals, and facility workers. Her counseling room is filled with toys she buys with her own money for play therapy.

How do you know the school hero you’re nominating?

She is my wife.

What should your community know about this person?

For Ms. Schwam, counseling children is much more than a job, it is a calling. She is always ready to help teachers when a student has to leave a classroom. She works closely with parents and other school staff. She mentors social work students and new social workers who start at the school. She has worked with children for the past 25 years in hospital and educational settings. Her cell phone number is given to all of the families she works with and she answers their calls days, nights and weekends. Even families from prior jobs get the attention and assistance they need when they call. She goes above and beyond for these families, all of whom are low-income and many of whom are living in shelters. She spends thousands of dollars each year on supplies and toys for her counseling room. To her, every child is special and has something to offer. She is especially good at working with children on the spectrum (Aspergers and autism).

What three words best describe the school hero?

Dedicated. Child-centered. Available.

If you know a school hero who deserves recognition, we’d love to hear from you! Simply answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest.

This content is brought to our community in partnership with T-Mobile.