Celebrating National Social Worker Week with Hamilton County Schools
March 5, 2025 – At The Howard School, there’s one person students know they can always count on—Ms. Garner, the school social worker for 10th and 11th graders. Whether they need support, advice, or just a safe place to talk, she’s there with a listening ear and a caring heart.
Garner’s journey to social work started early. Growing up, she watched her aunt, a social worker, fight for the well-being of others. That inspired her to take the same path. “I’ve always wanted to help people,” she says, “but I didn’t know exactly how until I discovered school social work.” After earning her degrees in social work and gaining experience in case management and advocacy, she found her way into education—a perfect fit for her passion for working with kids.
But her inspiration goes beyond just her family. As a lover of history, Garner found herself drawn to the story of Ida B. Wells, the fearless journalist and activist who fought against injustice long before social work was even a recognized profession. Wells was a pioneer, speaking out against racial violence and advocating for the rights of those who had no voice.
As CCA’s only social worker, Weiler provides emotional and mental health support for students in grades six through twelve. She’s there for the tough moments—helping students navigate anxiety, depression, and personal struggles—but she also makes sure to celebrate their successes.
“I want to be a pioneer like Ida B. Wells, she saw problems in her community and didn’t just sit back—she took action. That’s what social work is. It’s about standing up for people who need help and making sure they are seen, heard, and supported.”
That drive to advocate for others fuels her work at Howard. Her days are unpredictable—one moment, she’s helping a student find resources for their family, and the next, she’s offering emotional support to someone going through a tough time. Sometimes, she’s celebrating victories, big and small. “The best part of my job,” she says, “is when a student tells me they finally accomplished something we’ve been working toward together.”
But her work isn’t always easy. Language barriers, limited resources, and students facing serious personal struggles can be challenging. Yet, she never gives up. “Even on the hardest days, I remind myself why I’m here,” she says. “These kids deserve someone fighting for them.”
One of the most powerful moments in her career happened when a student struggling with suicidal thoughts told her, “I don’t know what I would’ve done if you hadn’t stepped in.” It was a reminder of the deep impact she makes every day.
Through trust, empathy, and genuine care, Garner ensures every student knows they have a safe space at Howard. Her goal? To help them believe in themselves, no matter where they come from or what they face. “It’s okay to take the road less traveled,” she tells them. “What matters is that you keep moving forward.”
This National Social Worker Week, we celebrate Ms. Garner and the life-changing work she does. Because of her, Howard High isn’t just a school—it’s a place where students know they’re seen, heard, and supported. Just like Ida B. Wells, she’s a fighter for her community, proving that one person can make a difference.
