Throughout the School District of Lancaster, school social workers play an essential role in supporting students and families, not just during major life events, but in everyday moments that build trust, create stability, and help children thrive. During Social Work Appreciation Month, we are proud to spotlight the stories of individuals whose presence makes a difference in our schools.
Individuals like Chelsea Zapata, who has served the Martin School community as a school social worker for the past eight years. Her approach is grounded in empathy, advocacy, and the belief that every child deserves to feel valued, safe, and capable of growth.
A Heart for Justice from the Start
For Chelsea, the calling to social work didn’t begin in a college classroom, it began in childhood. From an early age, she was the one speaking up for classmates who were left out, mistreated, or ignored. That instinct to advocate for fairness never faded.
“I have always, even at a young age, felt a strong sense of what is fair, right, and just,” she explains. “I have fought for those who have felt ‘othered’ and helped those who were treated unfairly.”
That deep-rooted sense of responsibility led her toward a career where she could support others every day, and ensure that students who often feel invisible know they matter.
Finding Home in Lancaster
Chelsea’s journey brought her to Lancaster as a student at Millersville University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree. While in college, she formed a connection with Lancaster City that stayed with her beyond graduation.
“I fell in love with Lancaster City and moved here post-college,” she shared. “I was excited and so fortunate when the position opened up at SDoL so that I could become a school social worker in the city I love.”
Now, years later, Chelsea’s work is rooted in that same love for community. She serves the children and families of Martin School with a deep sense of care, knowing that her role is about more than just casework, it’s about building relationships.
Moments That Stay With You
Ask Chelsea about a moment that shaped her, and she doesn’t hesitate. Early in her career, she worked closely with a student who was navigating overwhelming challenges both in and outside of school. Chelsea met with them regularly, offering consistency, emotional support, and space to talk through what they were feeling.
“We worked through many difficult moments together,” she said. “I helped them feel safe, heard, and understood.”
Eventually, the student moved on to high school, and like many educators, Chelsea wondered how they were doing. Years later, she received a message that stopped her in her tracks. The student had graduated and they wanted her to know that her support in middle school had made a lasting difference. 
“They said they wouldn’t have made it where they are today without the help they received from me,” she recalls. “That message reminded me how far a steady presence can go—even when you no longer see the student every day.”
What Drives Her Work
Chelsea finds daily motivation in the students and families she serves. “I’m motivated by knowing that I’m here to help break down barriers to education, whether that’s mental health challenges, housing issues, family stress, or anything else that might stand in a student’s way.”
Her role goes beyond emotional support. She connects families to community resources, partners with educators to support student behavior and attendance, and serves as a steady source of connection and calm in moments that can feel chaotic.
While her work is complex and often emotionally demanding, Chelsea has found ways to recharge. “I take care of myself by going home to my two beautiful girls and my husband, and enjoying my time with them,” she says. “I also love to read (always ready with a book recommendation) and paint my nails. Those small things make a difference.”
The Value of Being Seen and Understood
In 2023, the School District of Lancaster officially changed the title from “Student and Family Resource Specialist” to “School Social Worker.” For Chelsea, this change meant more than a new label.
“We are finally recognized for what we truly are, and have always been: social workers,” she said. “Job titles are important in this field. Some people use the title without the training, license, or credentials. So being named accurately was very validating for our team.”
The new title also helps others better understand the wide-ranging expertise school social workers bring to their schools, from trauma-informed practices and mental health counseling to crisis response and systems-level advocacy.
Why She Believes in SDoL
Chelsea speaks with real affection about the School District of Lancaster. “SDoL is an amazing district filled with a beautifully diverse group of students, families, and staff,” she says. “The district has initiatives that are inclusive and supportive. They understand the importance of mental health services, as shown by having a social worker in every building.”
For her, working in a district that recognizes the value of student well-being is energizing. It means she has the support, tools, and community partnerships to help students in meaningful ways.
Sources of Strength and Inspiration
Chelsea doesn’t look far to find people who inspire her. “My mother is my first hero,” she shares. “She always showed kindness and calmness, even in hard times.”
She also draws strength from the students and families she works with. “They show up every day, even when things are difficult. Their ability to keep going is something I deeply respect.”
And then there are her fellow social workers—the colleagues she leans on, learns from, and celebrates. “We all come from different backgrounds, and we all bring something unique. They are hardworking, supportive, and fabulous.”
What Social Work Means to Her
Chelsea describes her work in a way that cuts to the heart of what social workers do:
“Being a social worker means empowering those who may be struggling to find the light within themselves to brighten their own path.”
It’s about helping students rediscover their strengths—even when they’ve been pushed down or left behind. Chelsea’s work is not about fixing people, but about walking beside them as they find their way.
Why Social Work Appreciation Month Matters
To Chelsea, this month is a time to reflect and recognize. “Social work can be a thankless and misunderstood job at times,” she says. “Social Work Appreciation Month is important because it highlights all the different roles we fill and how we support our schools in so many ways. And it’s fun to celebrate each other, too!”