Jonathan Stern was nominated by his colleague, Dan Hyliard.
"Mr. Stern is an advocate and voice for the underserved, underrepresented, and less privileged in Ann Arbor. He goes out of his way for others in a way I have never seen in any educator," said Hyliard. "I have watched him tirelessly provide meals for those without food. I have watched him find resources for our undocumented citizens during moments when their families are being torn apart. He has spent hours listening to those families most in need because of the trauma they have experienced. I have seen students who would never open up to an adult feel comfortable to share with him that they are homeless, in need, and too afraid to ask anyone else for help. He eliminates all barriers to help others. He is the model of empathy."
Jonathan Stern is an outstanding school social worker. His dedication and generosity are unmatched. He goes above and beyond in his service to our school community, not for recognition or status, but because he genuinely cares about people. He takes the time to get to know his students and their families and leaves an immeasurable positive impact on the lives of those he serves. His commitment, intellect, and wry sense of humor have earned him the respect, appreciation, and affection of his colleagues. He possesses impeccable moral character and sensitivity to issues of diversity and social justice. He leads by example and over the years has been a positive role model to countless students, interns, and colleagues. Working with him has made me a better school psychologist.
Without Jonathan's support my son would not have gained the self confidence and coping skills he needed to deal with his anxiety, graduate high school and begin to discover who he can be! It is an ongoing process but one that he was able to start with Jonathan's guidance and I will be forever grateful!
Jonathan,
You are an inspiration. When I came into the district you inspired me to be the best version of myself. You did not hesitate to walk me through uncharted territory and I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with you. Congratulations on your nomination.
I first met Mr. Stern when I was in Highschool and he helped lead our trailblazers course and assisted with outreach at Bach Elementary. 20 years ago it was evident how compassionate he was towards his students and his love for working in his community. He was the first person who opened my eyes to being able to work in the school system in a different role than a teacher. Fast forward 20 years and I am now employed by AAPS as a school nurse. Congratulations Mr. Stern on this distinguished nomination.
Jonathan Stern has been a colleague and a mentor for many students and professional alike, myself fortunately included in this long list. He has a capacity to collaborate with one person or a group to delve into the deep waters and lead everyone to shore safely, reflectively, and willing to dive deep again when the next opportunity or need arises with new tools and confidence.
Jonathan not only serve students in the community, but also works with his colleagues to help improve our skills. He is highly regarded not just by the colleagues in his building, but by colleagues through the district that benefit from his knowledge and work. I have attended trainings for crisis interventions where Jonathan has been a leader for many years in the district.
Jonathan Stern is an exemplar for the profession of School Social Work and to school social workers across the nation. He is dedicated to supporting and listening to his students and families, and advancing student voice. He is an inspiration to all who work with him.