As a social worker responsible for responding to students’ social, emotional, and academic needs, Ms. Rios draws upon her deep understanding of her students’ culture and background-she herself has lived in this same South Bronx neighborhood for over 30 years. Ms. Rios could easily have found work in a less demanding school, but she chose to stay and make a difference in her community. Students, teachers, and principal alike trust her potent mixture of straight talk and unconditional care.