May is National Mental Health Month, and at Distinctive Schools, our commitment toward creating a supportive, student-centered environment where every child feels seen, heard, and valued is at the core of our work every single day. This wouldn’t be possible without the spirit and hard work of our social workers and school psychologists who go above and beyond every day to connect students and families with the care they need.
We are excited to share that ten of our clinicians have been recognized as Care Heroes by Care Solace, and that Care Heroes from Distinctive Schools were part of a group that helped the most students through Care Solace in 2025! This award honors school-based mental health professionals who make an impact through their advocacy, compassion, and commitment to student well-being.
Distinctive Schools partners with Care Solace to provide mental health care coordination to all Distinctive Schools team members, students, and families helping them quickly connect with a counselor or mental health provider. Their services are free, confidential, and available 24/7/365 in any language.
Please join us in celebrating these incredible honorees:
CICS Bucktown school social worker Rachel Iverson exemplifies dedication through constant presence and advocacy for student needs. Her creative thinking around mental health supports has resulted in a more supportive, inclusive school environment.
Lead School Social Worker at CICS Bucktown Patricia (Tricia) Milazzo’s tireless advocacy and care go above and beyond to support student well-being. Her creative problem-solving tactics have had a powerful impact toward helping students build skills and thrive at school.
CICS Prairie social worker Olivia Morse’s dedication is evident in the strong relationships she builds and sustains with students. Her practices have made a real, visible difference in the way mental health supports have been expanded at CICS Prairie.
Liza Melecio, CICS Bucktown and CICS Irving Park school psychologist, demonstrates her deep support of students through thoughtful, comprehensive assessments and ongoing collaboration with staff and families. Her approach toward integrating mental health within academic systems has strengthened MTSS practices at both schools and led to meaningful, measurable improvements in student outcomes.
School social worker for both CICS Irving Park and CICS West Belden, Laila Drury shares her dedication to student well-being through the way she shows up for each child. Her extra-mile approach to mental health support has made a meaningful, lasting impact on both students and staff, making sure everyone feels seen and supported.
Bianca Murillo, CICS Irving Park’s school social worker, brings both heart and ingenuity to her work through the way she designs thoughtful supports that really meet student needs. Her dedication has led to clear, positive outcomes for the students and families she serves at CICS Irving Park.
With compassion at her core, CICS Longwood Elementary school social worker Johana Zuluaga exceeds expectations when it comes to supporting students. Her thoughtful and responsive approach to student wellness has led to meaningful, noticeable growth and improved well-being across the school community.
CICS West Belden school social worker Krista Rangel shows up everyday with compassion and persistence. Her innovative strategies centered around student needs have strengthened access to care and have created a positive shift in school climate.
CICS West Belden school social worker Karen Freeman combines deep care with persistent strategies to support student success. Her impact is evident in the positive changes seen in student engagement, resilience, and overall well-being.
CICS Longwood Elementary and High School school psychologist Jazmyn Styles illustrates her deep commitment to student well-being through her responsive, student-centered approach and strong collaboration with school teams. Her creative problem-solving skills and data-informed practices have enhanced mental health supports in our Longwood campus and contributed to clear, positive growth for students across the community.
Each of these incredible individuals embody the heart of our mission to support the whole child. Their dedication to student well-being, mental health advocacy, and community-building makes a difference every single day. We are so grateful for their hard work and passion—please join us in congratulating them on this well-deserved recognition!