Take Five with Froilan Marchan Jr., Social Worker at North-Grand High School

Take Five is a series that highlights some of the many members of the CPS community who are going above and beyond for our schools. If you know someone who is making a difference, nominate them to be featured here.

Meet Froilan Marchan Jr., a school social worker at North-Grand High School (NGHS) and a CPS graduate himself! Mr. Marchan started at NGHS nine years ago as a special education classroom assistant (SECA) before moving into the school social worker role. On top of the individual students he works with, Mr. Marchan also coaches soccer after school and facilitates a boys group, creating spaces where students feel safe to express themselves, develop important life skills, and find community with each other.

Throughout every aspect of his work, Mr. Marchan loves being able to provide his students with a safe space and building positive relationships with families. Learn more about him below!

How do you think your students and colleagues would describe you?

They would probably tell you I am reliable, dependable, and a good listener. I have an “all hands on deck” kind of attitude. I also like to connect with people and crack a joke here and there.

What are the most important skills you want to teach your students?

Self-management and emotional regulation, so that they are able to take a step back, figure out how they’re feeling, and more calmly evaluate their next best steps. Also, time-management and self-advocacy. Those are the skills that will help students navigate the world after high school, whether that looks like university, a trade, or even on the soccer field.

Do you have any advice for future school social workers?

Imposter syndrome is real, but don’t let that hold you back. It’s okay to be afraid or uncomfortable—take it all in stride. If you’re truly passionate about this work, it’s very rewarding. Be yourself and be a true listener; kids can pick up on whether someone is being authentic.

What message do you want to send your students?

That I’m here for them, whether that’s during high school or when they’re 40. Whenever they need something or need someone to talk to, they can count on me.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I love music, soccer, and spending time in nature.