As our year closes, we want to share our appreciation for Charlene Trappe Black, Social Worker Mentor! At TCSEA we pride ourselves on supporting and developing new employees. Mrs. Trappe Black serves our first year social workers in so many ways. She brings a career of wisdom to our new employees. We appreciate all she does!
Here's what Val Jefferson shared, "Charlene has played a pivotal role in helping me start my career as a school social worker. She has guided me through everything from navigating paperwork and selecting appropriate rating scales to developing an organized system for sessions and meetings—and so much more. What I appreciate most is her unwavering support and patience. She has never made me feel uncomfortable for asking questions and has always been just a phone call away. I truly can’t imagine how my first year as a school social worker would have gone without her wisdom, guidance, and encouragement. "
Hailey Toney added, "She has helped me advocate for myself, given me tips on how to approach situations, tips on how to build relationships with districts. I think it's important to note how she just goes above and beyond to help you with anything - paperwork, tips, talking things through, feeling prepared and confident in your abilities. She has never made me feel bad for asking a question or stating a thought, always builds me up and shows me how well I am doing/improved and how I know something despite me thinking the opposite. She's just exactly what a mentor should be. "
Molly Augspurger agrees, "Charlene is the best resource of all for a new school social worker. Any time I have a question about anything, she is the first person that I contact. I know that when I reach out to her, she gets back to me with an answer, advice, encouragement, and the pep talk to boost my confidence. With her background, experience, and time in the field she is a wealth of knowledge. Not only has she been beyond helpful in my first year, but I look forward to continuing my relationship with her in the years to come. I would not feel as confident as I do to come back next year, had it not been for the support and knowledge from Charlene."
Rebecca Freeman stated, "Charlene has played a critical role in my first year working as a school social worker. Her mentoring has been a lifesaver with our weekly visits, case consultations and willingness to answer endless questions. Charlene has encouraged and challenged me to continually be a better social worker. I am so grateful for her support and look forward to continuing to work together! "