School Social Workers
School Social Work is a specialized area of practice within the broad field of the Social Work profession that brings a unique knowledge and skill set to Harrisonburg City Public School's multidisciplinary teams. School Social Workers are trained mental health professionals who can assist in comprehensive support to students such as: mental health concerns, behavioral concerns, positive behavioral supports, academic supports, and community supports. Additionally, they are involved in the Special Education process and serve on their school’s Child Study and Eligibility teams. School Social Workers offer support to students and their families by working collaboratively on identifying and overcoming barriers to academic success both within and outside the classroom.
Akiel Baker
Thomas Harrison Middle School
Waterman Elementary School
"Bio Coming Soon"
Donita Rhodes
Skyline Middle School
Smithland Elementary School
"I became a Social Worker 37 years ago. I received a bachelor's degree in Social Work from Goshen College, IN and a master's degree in Social Work through Jane Addams School of Social Work at the University of Illinois. I then became a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in 1991. I worked many years as a Social Worker in Chicago, IL, Richmond, VA and Harrisonburg, VA. I have also worked as a Medical Interpreter and served as a Home-School Liaison. Within the last couple of years I returned to Social Work. I really enjoy working with children, families, and co-workers in the school setting.
I am blessed to have grown up in Argentina and to be bilingual in Spanish and English. I am married, have three grown children, and recently gained a son in-law. I enjoy reading, walking, hiking, traveling, and eating and visiting with family and friends."
Andrea Meredith
Stone Spring Elementary School
Spotswood Elementary School
" This is my 24th year working as a School Social Worker in the Shenandoah Valley! I first came to Harrisonburg from my home in Wilmington, Delaware to attend Eastern Mennonite University. I didn't know what I wanted to do right away, but I was drawn to working with people and found social work as a career. I then went on to attend Virginia Commonwealth University, where I received a master's degree in Social Work.
My husband and I were drawn to move back to this area after graduate school. I spent seven years working as a school social working in Rockingham County Public Schools and have been with Harrisonburg City Public Schools ever since. I really enjoy working with the families of this wonderful community!
I live in Rockingham County with my husband, two sons, one dog, and a handful of chickens. My family enjoys trips to the beach and traveling, but the best part is coming back home to the mountains and the friendly close-knit community we live in. "
Brianna Steel
Bluestone Elementary School
Keister Elementary School
" I am a MSW School Social Worker who is originally from the Harrisonburg area. I spent several years in Virginia Beach while I completed my bachelor's and began my master's program. I have served the communities in which I have resided through different roles, to include in-home work as a mentor for children and adolescents and providing case management services.
During my master's program, I completed an internship in School Social Work where I developed a passion for serving students and families as we worked collaboratively to meet their needs and accomplish goals. I value the relationships I have built and those I will continue to make.
I enjoy taking walks, spending time with friends, and being with family. "
Rachel Spencer
Rocktown High School
"This is my 3rd year as a School Social Worker. I received my BA from Bridgewater College in International Studies and my Master's degree in Social Work from VCU in 2013. I am originally from Arlington, Virginia but fell in love with the valley in college. I started my career as a Child Protective Service worker and transitioned to Medical Social work at Rockingham Memorial Hospital before coming to work for Harrisonburg City Public Schools. I am passionate about working with families and love our incredible, diverse community.
I am married and have two boys who attend HCPS and a goldendoodle pup. I enjoy traveling, hiking, and camping with my family, trying new foods, and spending time with friends and family."
Roni Goldberg
Harrisonburg High School
Bio Coming Soon