March is a time to honor those who dedicate their lives to uplifting others, as we celebrate both Social Work Appreciation Month and Women’s History Month. At the School District of Lancaster, we take this opportunity to recognize Shenaye VanWyngarden, a social worker at Jackson Middle School, whose impact extends far beyond the walls of her office.
Over the past four years, Shenaye has been an advocate for students, creating an environment where they feel seen, valued, and empowered to navigate their challenges.
Her work is not just about addressing immediate needs,it is about fostering resilience, equipping students with the confidence to overcome obstacles, and ensuring they have the resources and support to build a brighter future. Shenaye’s passion for her students embodies the very heart of social work: advocacy, empowerment, and transformation.
A Calling to Social Work
Shenaye’s passion for social work stems from a deep desire to uplift individuals and communities who are often unheard. Growing up, she witnessed the hardships faced by many, financial struggles, family instability, and systemic barriers, and felt compelled to be part of the solution. For her, social work is not just about offering advice; it’s about standing beside students, connecting them with essential resources, and helping them find their voices in a world that may not always listen.
“What inspired me to become a social worker was my deep desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities who often feel unheard or overlooked,” Shenaye explains. “I wanted to be a resource, not just someone who offers advice, but someone who advocates, listens, and provides support through difficult times.”
Shenaye’s commitment to education has been a cornerstone of her career. She earned her undergraduate degree from Lock Haven University before pursuing a Master of Social Work (MSW) at Kutztown University. Currently, she is continuing her studies, working toward a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Trauma-Informed Education, further equipping herself to support students through the challenges they face.
When she discovered SDoL’s commitment to diversity, she knew it was the right place for her. “I’ve always had a strong desire to work in a diverse school district, and when I learned that SDoL is known for its diversity, I knew it was the perfect fit for me,” she says. Each day, she engages with students from all walks of life, ensuring they have the emotional, social, and academic support they need to grow and succeed.
A Safe Space in the Storm
One of the most impactful moments in Shenaye’s career occurred when a student who had just lost a sibling to gun violence returned to school the very next day. When Shenaye asked why she had chosen to come in, the student responded, “Your office is my safe space.” In that moment, Shenaye recognized the significance of the trust and refuge she provided, not only by offering guidance but by creating an environment where students could find solace in their most difficult times.
“That moment reaffirmed that I was not only doing my job but doing it well, providing a sanctuary where students feel supported, heard, and protected, even amidst their most challenging circumstances,” she reflects.
Her work is especially centered on advocating for Black and Brown girls, who are often misjudged or silenced. Society frequently labels them as “too loud” or “too much,” but Shenaye ensures that they have a space where they are not only heard but embraced. “I am here to advocate for students who are often misunderstood, particularly for Black and Brown girls who are frequently labeled as ‘too loud’ or ‘too much,’” she shares. “My goal is to provide a space where they are not only heard but also feel safe and valued.”
Changing the Narrative on Social Work
Despite the critical role social workers play, their work is often misunderstood. Media portrayals tend to focus on negative stereotypes—such as the misconception that social workers only exist to remove children from homes—rather than the countless ways they uplift families and communities. Shenaye hopes to see a shift in this narrative, one that recognizes the depth of care, advocacy, and empowerment that social workers bring to their roles.
“I would love to see social workers portrayed in a more positive light. Often, in media, we’re depicted as ‘the people who take away children’ or as incompetent. These portrayals don’t reflect the work we do to support families and communities,” she says. “It’s important to shift this narrative and highlight the meaningful impact social workers have.”
She envisions a future where social workers are seen not just as helpers, but as leaders in shaping policies, school environments, and community initiatives. Beyond recognition, she also wants to see more leadership opportunities and better work-life balance for those in the field. Burnout is a common challenge in social work, and she believes additional resources and mental health support are necessary to ensure that social workers can continue making a difference for years to come.
The Strength of Women in Social Work
Shenaye’s passion for her work is deeply influenced by the women who have shaped her life, especially her mother, who immigrated from Jamaica with the hope of building a better future for her family. “My mother came to America from Jamaica with the sole purpose of giving us a better life, and she accomplished that in ways that words can hardly capture,” Shenaye says. “Her strength, resilience, and determination have shaped who I am today, and I am endlessly grateful for the sacrifices she made to create opportunities for our future.”
She carries that same spirit forward by empowering the women around her, whether they are students, colleagues, or community members. She listens to their stories, mentors them, and encourages them to advocate for themselves. By fostering collaboration, celebrating achievements, and offering guidance, she ensures that women have the support they need to reach their full potential.
Her advice to young women considering social work? “Stay passionate, persistent, and open-minded. Social work can be challenging, but it is also incredibly rewarding. The efforts you make, no matter how small, have the power to create lasting change in someone’s life. Seek mentorship, build strong support networks, and never underestimate the importance of self-care. Most importantly, always remember why you started.”
A Lasting Impact
For Shenaye, being a social worker means advocating for the vulnerable, providing guidance in times of crisis, and helping students and families build stronger, healthier lives. “Being a social worker means advocating for those who are vulnerable, providing support during times of crisis, and empowering individuals and families to overcome challenges and build stronger, healthier lives,” she says. “It’s about creating a sense of hope, fostering resilience, and working tirelessly to make a positive impact in the lives of others.”
Her presence at Jackson Middle School has provided a foundation of trust and support, helping students navigate personal hardships, academic pressures, and identity struggles. She is not just a social worker, she is a mentor, a fierce advocate, and a compassionate leader who reminds every student that they are worthy, capable, and never alone.
This Social Work Appreciation Month and Women’s History Month, we celebrate Shenaye VanWyngarden for the work she does every day at Jackson Middle School. Her passion for her students and her commitment to creating spaces where all students feel valued and heard remind us of the true power of social work.
Thank you, Shenaye, for being a pillar of support, a mentor, and an advocate for so many. Your work does not go unnoticed, and your impact will be felt for generations to come.