At JP McCaskey High School, Elizabeth White, affectionately known as “Miss Liz”, is more than just a social worker. She is a steadfast presence, a compassionate advocate, and a guiding force for students navigating the complexities of life. With over 20 years of experience in the field, including six at McCaskey, she has dedicated her career to making sure every student feels acknowledged, supported, and empowered to succeed.
Liz’s passion for social work was ignited by her upbringing in a deeply giving and philanthropic family. Her mother, a guardian ad litem for foster children, dedicated her life to protecting and uplifting young lives. She also witnessed her father playing pivotal roles in their community, always offering support when needed. She also embarked on mission trips, one of which led her to adopt Liz’s younger brother. Witnessing this commitment to others left a lasting impact, inspiring Elizabeth to follow a similar path of service. From a young age, she understood that one person’s kindness could change the trajectory of another’s life.
A Career Rooted in Commitment
Elizabeth’s journey with the School District of Lancaster began as a school-based therapist at Camelot of Buehrle, where she worked with students facing significant personal and academic challenges. She later transitioned into the role of Director of Student Services before stepping into her current position as a Social Worker at McCaskey. With every role, her focus remained the same: to be a consistent source of support for students and families.
One of Liz’s most memorable experiences is the story of a 12-year-old student she met early in her career, an intelligent, spirited young girl who had endured significant trauma. At first, the student struggled to trust adults due to past experiences, but Elizabeth showed up, day after day, proving that she would not give up on her. Despite moving on from her role and the student relocating, Elizabeth remained a steady figure in her life, offering guidance and encouragement. Years later, that same student has become a Licensed Social Worker, a dedicated mother, and a proud homeowner. Today, her children affectionately call Elizabeth “Aunt Liz,” a reflection of the lasting impact of her care and consistency.
The Power of Presence: Why Showing Up Matters
“Students don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care,” Liz says. For her, social work is about being present, building trust, and creating an environment where students feel safe and valued. Each day, she walks into McCaskey with the understanding that her presence alone can make a difference.
She helps students navigate mental health struggles, family instability, food insecurity, and a range of personal challenges. Some days, it’s about helping a student find a place to stay for the night. Other times, it’s about celebrating small victories, like improved attendance or a breakthrough in therapy. No matter what, she remains a constant, ensuring that no student feels invisible or unheard.
She also recognizes the importance of self-care in a profession that demands so much. Yoga, surrounding herself with a supportive community, and leaning on her colleagues help her sustain the energy needed for this vital work.
A Sisterhood of Support
One of the most meaningful aspects of Liz’s work is the camaraderie she has built with her fellow social workers. McCaskey’s social work team is made up entirely of women, a sisterhood that provides encouragement, strength, and solidarity. They share resources, strategies, and, most importantly, emotional support. “I never feel alone,” she says. “We have an incredibly strong sisterhood.”
This unity is especially important in a field that often goes unrecognized. When the district officially changed their titles from Student and Family Resource Specialists (SFRS) to Social Workers, it was a powerful moment of acknowledgment. “Just like any other profession, I have done the work, earned the degrees, and maintain my professional license. I am owed the respect of being called a Social Worker,” Liz affirms.
Advocating for the Future of Social Work
During Social Work Appreciation Month, Liz hopes the community takes the time to honor the dedication of school social workers. She envisions a future where the profession is met with greater respect, more resources, and salaries that reflect the critical role they play.
She also hopes that future generations of women entering social work receive the recognition they deserve. “We live in a world created by men for men, and that seems to be only getting worse,” she reflects. “Women’s History Month allows the incredible contributions of women to be highlighted and honored.”
Liz is also passionate about increasing accessibility to mental health support within schools. She believes that with more funding and staffing, students can receive earlier interventions and stronger wraparound services, preventing crises before they escalate. Her hope is that school social workers will no longer be stretched too thin but will have the necessary tools to help every student who walks through their doors.
A Legacy of Care
For Liz, social work is a calling. It’s about creating community, empowering students, and ensuring that no child feels like they have to navigate life’s challenges alone.
She sees her role as one of not just intervention but transformation. Her work is about planting seeds of hope, encouragement, and empowerment that continue to grow long after students leave McCaskey’s halls.
As we celebrate Social Work Appreciation Month, we honor Liz and the vital work she does every day. Her passion, persistence, and ability to create lasting change in the lives of her students remind us all of the incredible power of simply showing up. At SDoL, we are grateful for her dedication, and we know that the students of McCaskey are stronger because of her presence in their lives.