Some people set out on a career path with a clear destination in mind. For Heather Hoffman, social work was not a choice she actively pursued, it was a calling that found her. Throughout college, she naturally became the person friends turned to for guidance, support, and a compassionate ear. Recognizing this as her strength, she embraced it fully, committing herself to a profession that uplifts and empowers others.
For the past seven years, Heather has served as the social worker at Burrowes Elementary School, bringing support, advocacy, and a deep sense of responsibility to the personal growth of the students and families of the School District of Lancaster.
Her journey to SDoL was driven by a desire to make a difference in the community where she lives. While she had been working outside the area, she longed to contribute on a more local level, strengthening the very neighborhood she calls home.
Heather’s work extends far beyond paperwork and school meetings; it is about human connection. She recalls a young woman she once worked with in therapy, a teenager who arrived burdened with self-doubt and deep anxiety but left with newfound confidence and strength to move on from the teenage years to a promising young adulthood. That transformation, built through trust, perseverance, and a commitment to growth, reaffirmed for Heather why she chose this path.
Each day, the students she serves motivate her, reminding her why her role is essential. Their laughter, curiosity, and resilience fuel her drive to create opportunities for success. Still, Heather understands the importance of balance and prioritizes self-care through reading, traveling, spending time with her pup and through moments of self-reflection, allowing her to continue giving her best to those who rely on her. 
Heather’s impact is further reflected in her pride in the district’s commitment to recognizing social workers as integral members of the school community. When the official title of “School Social Worker” was established within SDoL, it was more than just a name change, it was validation of the expertise, advocacy, and dedication that she and her colleagues bring to their roles every day. Having spent more than two decades in the profession, she is grateful to finally be able to own her title as a Certified School Social Worker.
Her deep connection to the district is evident in her commitment to its students. She is dedicated to helping all students reach their greatest potential and be their very best. To Heather, her role is a personal investment in a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Heather credits her parents as her greatest inspiration. Although they are not social workers by profession, they both demonstrate in their daily lives the level of kindness, generosity, and commitment to helping others that is embodied in the role of a social worker. Their influence has shaped not only the person she is but also the professional she strives to be. Their values, rooted in hope and perseverance, are reflected in the way she approaches her work and the community she serves.
During Social Work Appreciation Month and Women’s History Month, we celebrate Heather Hoffman, not just for the work she does, but for the lasting impact she makes on the lives of students and families. She may not ask for recognition, but the difference she makes every day speaks volumes.