Refusing to Give Up: HERO Team and Schools Help Students Succeed

When students who are struggling with housing enroll in Metro Schools, a team of district employees and school-based staff works hard to support them and their families and make sure they have what they need to succeed in school.  

That work happens across the city under the leadership of HERO, MNPS’s Homeless Education Resource Office. Read on for a few examples of HERO success stories from the 2024-25 school year. 

Northeast Quadrant: Hattie Cotton Elementary 

Hattie Cotton has a dedicated team committed to supporting HERO students. The school’s social workers, Community Achieves and Communities In Schools representatives, HERO specialist, and Principal Jocelyn Adams work together to advocate for and meet student needs.  

Principal Adams and one of the social workers, Lindsay Mihalcik, recently reached out to a family countless times when the student was repeatedly absent, refusing to give up on making a connection and checking on their well-being. Their persistence in offering support and resources led to the family transferring to their zoned school, and the children are now happier and more stable.  

This effort not only helped the family but also strengthened the HERO program's ability to support students while raising awareness of how to better assist schools across the district.   

Northwest Quadrant: Alex Green Elementary  

Alex Green staff members consistently reach out to the HERO team for both small and large needs, showing a strong commitment to supporting families. They work tirelessly to ask questions, complete forms, secure furniture through partners, and provide clothing by picking up items on Warehouse Wednesdays, when HERO sets aside time for student support staff and community partners to pick up items for their schools’ UniCycle school uniform closets.  

Alex Green is proactive and quick to communicate, reaching out immediately when a new HERO student enrolls to ensure the student receives the best support possible. Recently they advocated for a family with five children, making it their mission to communicate with the other schools where the siblings are enrolled to ensure each child would receive consistent support.  

Southwest Quadrant: Charlotte Park Elementary  

At Charlotte Park, a small but passionate team is making a big impact by supporting students experiencing housing insecurity through the HERO program. Leading these efforts is Community Achieves partner Kayli Wilder, whose dedication and compassion have made her an invaluable ally to both the HERO team and the students it serves. 

Wilder consistently reaches out to Charlotte Park’s HERO outreach specialist whenever a new student is identified, ensuring that no one falls through the cracks. Over the past two years, she has learned how to leverage HERO resources to best support students and their families during times of transition. 

Wilder also makes regular visits to Warehouse Wednesday, proactively ensuring that students’ needs are met quickly, thoughtfully, and with care. She approaches each conversation about students with compassion and a genuine desire to help. Thanks to her efforts, HERO students at Charlotte Park are not only supported but also seen, valued, and empowered. 

Southeast Quadrant: Antioch Middle  

Antioch Middle School is home to an exceptional team of dedicated professionals who go above and beyond to support students experiencing housing instability. Kelly Richter and Becca Ball have made it their mission to ensure that no student’s needs go unmet. When resources fall short, they never hesitate to reach out to HERO. 

Richter, who manages a well-equipped resource room on campus, plays a pivotal role in directly addressing the everyday needs of students. From clothing to school supplies and hygiene items, she makes sure students have access to essentials that help them feel confident and prepared for learning. 

Ball brings warmth and dedication to her role, always looking for innovative ways to support HERO students. This year, her intern, Annalese Gill, has become an integral part of the team as well with her thoughtful approach and genuine concern for students in transition, reflecting the heart of the HERO mission. 

What makes Antioch Middle truly special is the intentional care this small staff provides every day. Their teamwork, empathy, and proactive problem-solving create a strong, supportive environment where HERO students can thrive. 

"The HERO team is proud to partner with dedicated school staff to support families experiencing homelessness," said Catherine Knowles, MNPS's director of special population services. "Together, we ensure that essential resources — like food, clothing, and hygiene supplies — reach students quickly and with care. This collaboration is key to meeting families where they are and making a meaningful impact."

Support Services & HERO Staff Contact Information 

If you’re a parent or caregiver and in need of immediate help, you have options: 

• Call 211 

• Text 898-211 

• Visit the Where to Turn in Nashville website. 

For MNPS-based assistance, please contact the HERO department or reach out through your school counselor or social worker.