Congratulations to Ms. Frances Velez, our April 2025 Classified Employee of the Month!
Ms. Velez is part of the Migrant Recruitment Program, working to address and eliminate the barriers and challenges faced by migrant students. She empowers and advocates for those who sometimes feel as though they don't have a voice.
She comes in early, stays late, and works on weekends to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Ms. Velez is dedicated to providing the necessary support services to help students and families inside and outside of the classroom. She educates and advocates with her heart. She truly supports the mission of JCPS.
Below, Ms. Velez talks about her role in the Migrant Recruitment Program and her love of serving others.
How does being named Classified Employee of the Month make you feel?
I appreciate being chosen as the Classified Employee of the Month, and I am also a little embarrassed. Everyone who is part of this program does this work to assist students and families. It is always a team effort!
How does your job affect the children’s overall school experience?
Being an advocate for students is a great honor that I take very seriously. Education has always been a tool that we instill in the children to learn to the best of their ability each day. No one can give them the world if they do not reach for the stars to be successful on the educational road to graduation.
Why is it important to build relationships with students and staff?
Making strong positive connections and relationships to support students' success is always the goal of the Migrant Recruitment Program. We all want to see every student grow in school.
Building relationships with the staff is crucial for better serving and assisting students' educational needs, and becoming good stewards not just in school, but also in their communities.
How do you build those relationships?
I contact families at least once a week and more often when needed. There are several methods of contact the department uses to keep in touch including phone calls, face-to-face meetings, and home visits. We want to let the families know that we are here for them. We also conduct wellness checks before and after a big storm .
Why is collaboration and teamwork with the school’s administration, staff, and co-workers important?
Regular collaboration with the school’s administration, staff, and co-workers helps build strong relationships, and brings our diverse perspectives and expertise together.