On Monday, Nov. 13, Jazmin Ponce, one of our school social workers, was nominated and won the Womxn of the Year Award for the category “Compassionate Servant Leader” by Via Connects.
As a school social worker, Ms. Ponce plays a crucial role in educational settings by addressing student's social, emotional, and physical well-being. In addition to identifying and supporting students who face challenges in and outside of the school building, she also advocates for families by connecting them with community resources to foster a positive and inclusive school environment.
To Glyndale Elementary Assistant Principal Tonya Smith, the organization couldn’t have picked a better choice.
“Jazmin is an amazing leader in our county and school system with a heart and drive for others. She not only serves several schools as a school social worker, but also shares her talents with Safe Harbor. It was an honor to celebrate her,” Smith said.
Ms. Ponce said to be considered for the award was an honor.
“There are many things I have accomplished in my 31 years of life – I’ve played professional soccer for the U.S. and Mexico, graduated with my masters, received my dream job as a bilingual school social worker – but being nominated and winning Womxn of the Year was one of the greatest accomplishments in my life,” she said.
Ms. Ponce currently serves Glynn Learning Center, Bright Beginnings, Newcomer Academy, Glyndale Elementary and Morningstar.
“The work I do is very important … (but) being kind and empathic can go a long way in making someone's life. A hello or a listening ear can be what someone needs for that day … and knowing I have the power to help others change their lives is very rewarding,” she said.
Via Connects is a non-profit organization that focuses on developing women-centric initiatives that support and empower their diverse community.