Congratulations to this month’s Embrace, Empower & Inspire Award winners, Caitlin Blanc (Social Worker at Weaver Middle School), and Janeen Robinson (English Teacher at The HUB).
“Miss Blanc deserves the Embrace, Empower, Inspire award because she’s been a light for so many students, especially during tough times. I honestly don’t know how I would have gotten through some really hard stuff without her support. She has this amazing ability to make you feel heard and understood, no matter what you’re going through. It’s like she has a superpower for empathy. She doesn’t just offer advice; she really listens and tries to help you find solutions that work for you. One of the things I appreciate most about Miss Blanc is how encouraging she is. Even when I felt like giving up, she believed in me and reminded me of my strengths. She has a thing for seeing the potential in everyone, even when they can’t see it themselves. Miss Blanc genuinely cares about each and every student at Weaver. You can tell it’s not just a job for her; she truly wants us to succeed and be happy. Her office door is always open, literally and figuratively. It’s a safe space where you can go to talk, vent, or just get a moment of peace. She never judges and always makes time to listen, even when she’s super busy. It’s like she has an endless supply of patience and kindness. She’s helped me navigate some really difficult personal situations, offering guidance and support when I felt completely lost. She’s also helped me with schoolwork, making sure I understood the material and pushing me to do my best. Miss Blanc’s dedication to her students goes above and beyond what’s expected. She creates a positive and supportive learning environment where everyone feels valued. She’s not just a Social Worker; she’s a mentor, a confidante, and a true inspiration. She embodies the qualities of this award perfectly, embracing students with compassion, empowering them to overcome challenges, and inspiring them to reach their full potential. She makes Weaver a better place, and I know I’m not the only one who feels this way. She’s a true gem, and I can’t think of anyone more deserving of this recognition. She has helped so many kids at Weaver, and we are all so lucky to have her. I know I am.”
“Mrs Robinson is a perfect example of what an amazing human is. Every day she helps others, inspires others, and makes every student, teacher, administrator, custodian feel like they matter. She gave me the opportunity and confidence to speak in front of the entire Hilliard administration about a topic I was passionate about with someone I barely know (we’re actually really good friends now)! When I started my 7th grade year in her class I didn’t know what to expect. But because of her and her amazing personality, attitude, and just such a passionate perspective of life, she exemplifies exactly what Hilliard city schools is. I can confidently say she has made the most incredible impact on me and my peers out of any teacher I have ever had. Every day, she walks in and tries to be the best for all of us, no matter how her day is going. The values of portrait of a learner is shown by her no matter where she is. When I found out she wasn’t going to be in 8th grade honors core infusion I was a little sad. I still go to her classroom and see her because the advice and the time she gives us is more than any teacher I have and have had. I truly believe that she deserves this!”
These staff members go above and beyond the expectations of the Hilliard Way and truly make a difference in our district. If you know a staff member who goes above and beyond their way to make a difference, you can nominate them for next month’s award by clicking HERE!