My name is Unique Murphy, and I am the Communities In Schools Site Coordinator and Social Worker for Wheeling Park High School. In 2018, I received my bachelor's degree in Social Work, while also completing two minors, one in Psychology and the other in Criminal Justice, all from Marshall University. Before returning to Ohio County Schools, I worked in the Belmont County school district as a School Based Social worker at both Bridgeport and Barnesville High schools. I also completed multiple internships for non-profit organizations, including Safe-At-Home and the Children’s Home Society of West Virginia. I have worked closely and in depth with many local resource organizations including CASA, NYAP, the DHHR, and many others. I am well versed in building lasting relationships with community members and local small businesses. I am excited to see our program blossom over the next few years.

I am a product of Ohio County Schools as well as a product of my environment, which is why this position is so important to me. I have many goals to achieve over the next four years and am hoping to assist in bridging the gap between our education system and our community and families, but my main goal as the Site Coordinator and Social Worker for WPHS, is to identify and provide support and resources to those students who are often, but unintentionally, overlooked.

Kristen Paynter is the Communities In Schools Site Coordinator at Woodsdale Elementary. As a proud parent of Ohio County Schools, Kristen is deeply invested in the community and the well-being of its students.

Kristen is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work from Ohio University, bringing over twenty years' experience advocating for youth and families in the court system. Prior to her time at Ohio County Schools, Kristen served as the Program Director at CASA for Children, Inc. Kristen developed a deep commitment to building strong, trusting relationships with youth and families. This experience reinforced her belief in the importance of coordinated support and addressing basic needs to help students thrive academically and emotionally. Kristen is passionate about empowering students and supporting families, ensuring that every child has the stability and resources needed for success.

I am Jessica Stradwick, Communities In Schools Site Coordinator for Madison Elementary. I have my associate's degree in childhood development and a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Psychology.

I bring 22 years of experience to Ohio County Schools. I have a significant background working with children and families. Before becoming the Site Coordinator for Madison, I was a Safe at Home wraparound facilitator with NYAP. As a wraparound facilitator I gained an abundance of knowledge working with children and families, which in turn provided me with great working relationships with DHHR, CPS, comm unity partners, and comm unity resources.

During my years of experience, I worked with Juvenile Mediation Program, in which I was provided space in Ohio County Schools to meet with families whose children were chronically absent and provide resources and support. I also had the privilege to work 12 yea rs with the Autism community by starting my career at Augusta Levy Learning Center, where I was able to provide ABA and behavior interventions.

Ohio County schools have played a pivotal part in my children's lives. Three of my children attended Madison Elementary and it has and will always hold a special place in my heart. I find joy in helping others, especially those who are a part of my community. I was once in so many of our families' shoes, so I can relate and understand what it is like to work from the ground up. This position means so much to me because I want to make families feel comfortable, meet them where they are, and provide the love and support we all deserve.