For Michelle Wilson, social work is not just a career, it is her life’s calling. With 23 years of experience, including the last three at Smith-Wade-El Elementary, Michelle has committed herself to ensuring that every student she encounters feels seen, valued, and supported.
Her journey into social work was deeply personal. As a teenager, she met someone who significantly influenced her life during a difficult time. That single act of kindness inspired her lifelong mission: to be that guiding force for others. “If I can make that impact on just one person, all the hard work, time, and commitment to my community will have been worth it,” Michelle shares.
Coming Home: A Commitment to Lancaster
Michelle’s work in the School District of Lancaster is rooted in her love for her hometown. She takes great pride in Lancaster’s rich cultural diversity and values the unique backgrounds represented in each classroom. Her goal is to cultivate a school environment where all students feel safe, supported, and uplifted.
“Lancaster is home, and I feel a sense of responsibility to give back to the community that shaped me,” Michelle says. “The diversity in every building and the way SDoL embraces people from all walks of life is something truly special.”
A Life-Changing Moment
Throughout her career, Michelle has had many impactful experiences, but one stands out above the rest. While working in an emotional support classroom in York County, she received a heartfelt card from a student who credited Michelle with helping her choose to live.
“That was a deeply moving moment for me,” Michelle reflects. “It was a reminder that the work we do has real, lasting impacts. Sometimes, we don’t realize how much a conversation, a small act of kindness, or simply being there for someone can change everything.”
This moment reaffirmed her passion for social work and her belief that every child deserves someone in their corner.
Motivation & Self-Care: The Balance of Giving
Michelle finds her greatest motivation in the students at Smith-Wade-El Elementary. Every day, she shows up for them physically, mentally, and emotionally. However, she understands that in order to pour into others, she must also take care of herself.
“Some days are harder than others, so to ensure I can be my best self at school, I practice self-care,” Michelle explains. “I listen to music or call a loved one on my way home from work. When I get home, I take time to decompress, be present, and check in with my kids. I love reading, watching documentaries, doing puzzles, and spending time with friends.”
This balance allows her to continue serving her students with the care and attention they deserve.
What It Means to Be a Social Worker
“Being a social worker means you are selfless, but not enough that you lose sight of yourself and your own health,” Michelle shares. Social work requires emotional strength, resilience, and compassion.
She acknowledges the challenges that come with the role, but she wouldn’t trade it for anything. She finds fulfillment in the everyday victories, whether it’s guiding a student through a difficult situation, providing resources to a family, or simply being a source of encouragement when someone needs it most. 
How We Can Support Our Social Workers
Social Work Appreciation Month is an opportunity to recognize the essential contributions of social workers. Michelle hopes the community will gain a deeper understanding of the role social workers play in students’ lives.
“Our community can better support social workers by taking the time to understand what our role actually looks like,” Michelle emphasizes. “We shouldn’t be seen as a ‘last resort’ or a negative presence in someone’s life, but rather as advocates and allies.”
A Name That Represents the Work
When the district changed the title from “Student Family Resource Specialist” to “Social Worker,” it wasn’t just a name change, it was an acknowledgment of the profession and the years of education, training, and expertise it requires.
“For me, the change meant respect and recognition,” Michelle says. “We didn’t study to be ‘student family resource specialists.’ We trained to be social workers, and that title reflects the work we actually do.”
Michelle envisions a future where more men and women enter the field and where women rise into leadership roles in social work. Her advice to young women considering this career? “Do it! Know your ‘why’ and use that to motivate you to achieve greatness.”
Empowering Women, Building Community
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, Michelle reflects on the women who shaped her journey, particularly her mother. “She made the conscious decision to break cycles and barriers from her own childhood so that my brother and I could have better, more loving experiences,” Michelle shares.
She also credits a mentor from Millersville University with helping her discover social work. “I was undeclared for two years and had no idea what I wanted to do. With her guidance and support, I found my path, and the rest is history.”
Michelle is passionate about empowering women, whether they are students, colleagues, or members of the community. She constantly reminds girls and women of their worth. “You are enough. The only person in the world you owe anything to is yourself. Choose yourself each and every day.”
Sisterhood in Social Work
The power of solidarity among women is something Michelle deeply values. She finds it within her fellow SDoL social workers. “The beautiful souls who make up our team give me purpose, love, determination, and motivation. We are always here for each other,” she shares. “It’s truly amazing to know that we have each other’s backs and can share in the highs and lows together.”
For Michelle, Women’s History Month is about ensuring that the contributions of women throughout history are never forgotten. “Acknowledging and honoring the immense role women have played in history is so important,” she says. “In doing so, we ensure that their legacies live on.”
A Lasting Impact
Michelle Wilson embodies the heart of social work. Through her compassion, expertise, and drive, she is shaping the lives of students and families in meaningful ways. As we celebrate Social Work Appreciation Month and Women’s History Month, we honor professionals like Michelle, whose work leaves an undeniable mark on our schools and community.
Her message is clear: Social workers empower, uplift, and advocate, not just for others, but for themselves as well.