CONDUCTED BY LUNA MOULTON ON OCT. 6

MOULTON: To start, why don’t you tell me a little bit about yourself?

ABUSABA: I am a school social worker- in particular, I have a specialty in school counseling. As well, I’m licensed as a clinical social worker, which means I could practice outside of school. My Master’s was earned at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I’ve lived in Springfield my whole life, and I enjoy being outside. I also enjoy reading and I have a husband and two sons.

MOULTON: How long have you been working as a school social worker?

ABUSABA: This is my fifth year at Springfield High, and I have been working in the district since 2006. I’d also say that this is my favorite place to work at.

MOULTON: What would you say your most memorable visit was?

ABUSABA: My most memorable visits usually involve making difficult decisions for students- it’s part of my job to put the student’s interest first, and there have been times where I have had to get students out of dangerous situations.

[Nonspecificity in this answer was to preserve student anonymity.]

MOULTON: Could you say a little bit about your job, and about how students could find you?

ABUSABA: Students can come by between classes, and ask to speak with me. My office is in room 106. If I’m not there, Mrs. Troppa is also available. They can come in for really any reason- help finding a classroom or just having someone to talk to, for instance.

MOULTON: What was your high school experience like? Did you ever need to make visits to a school social worker?

ABUSABA: I went to Sacred Heart Griffin in the ’90s – at that time, they had counselors, but not any social workers. Personally, I never had to make visits to the school counselor but I had friends who did. What’s funny is that my locker was right next to their office- it’s possible that’s how I found my calling.

MOULTON: Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know?

ABUSABA: I have a lot of respect for people who come in, and I like to see myself as a touch-point in the school- I’m always willing to help those who come in. Come in for anything!