Emily Snisky, Families in Transition Social Worker in the Reading School District, has been recognized as one of the state recipients of the 2024 Paving the Way to Educational Success Advocate Award.
Snisky follows in the footsteps of previous award recipients Anne Fisher, Director of Student Services, and Leanne Eckenrode, Coordinator of Social Work Services, who have also been honored for their work supporting students across the district.
Presented at the Paving the Way (PTW) Conference, the award honors Snisky’s exceptional dedication to ensuring educational stability for homeless and foster care youth, as well as all students across the district.
Snisky was recognized at the 2024 PTW Conference in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, which is sponsored by Pennsylvania’s Education for Children and Youth Experiencing Homelessness (ECYEH) Program. She and other award recipients were acknowledged for their efforts in advocating for vulnerable youth, shaping policy reforms, and removing educational barriers.
“Earning the Paving the Way to Educational Success Advocate Award is a reflection of the collaborative efforts of the entire Reading School District community,” Snisky said. “I am honored to be a recipient and am deeply committed to ensuring every student, no matter their circumstances, has the resources they need to succeed. Together, we’re making a difference for students in transition.”
At RSD, Snisky has played a key role in supporting families in transition and coordinating the district’s Knight’s Closet, which collects donations of clothing, school supplies, gift cards, and other necessary resources to assist students and families in need. As the lead contact, she collaborates with a team of 43 social workers across the district who help families experiencing homelessness access critical services.
In recent years, the Reading School District has implemented several initiatives to assist students in transition, including outreach programs, the provision of supplies through Knight’s’ Closets in all 19 schools, and partnerships with Helping Harvest’s Weekender Program. The district is also finalizing a Knight’s Keep at Reading High School, a dedicated space and drop-in center including shower and laundry facilities to support students’ basic needs.
“Emily’s work has made a lasting impact on our district and the lives of countless students,” said Dr. Jennifer Murray, RSD Superintendent. “She embodies our district’s commitment to compassion and stability for all students, especially those facing the greatest challenges. This award highlights the profound impact Emily, along with our entire team of social workers and support staff, has made on the lives of our students and their families.”
The Reading School District remains committed to creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students, particularly those facing housing instability. For more information about the Student Services Department and its programs, visit https://www.readingsd.org/Page/403.