D99'S VERY OWN: SARA PARILLA

“If I can make a positive difference in even one of my students’ lives, then I think I’m doing what I was meant to do.” -Sara Parilla, social worker at Unity Junior High School

For over 20 years, Sara Parilla has worked as a school social worker in Cicero District 99, showing up to work each day ready to support the academic, emotional and social well-being of each student who crosses her path.

District administrators and colleagues share that in her over two decades of experience, Parilla has undoubtedly left a positive and lasting impact on the lives of hundreds of students. For her work in helping students build confidence, navigate through difficult life circumstances, facilitate family/school support connections and coaching a special student running club, Parilla was recognized at yesterday's Board of Education meeting as D99's Very Own.

Click here to watch her story.