A Southern Lehigh Alumnus of 2001 has returned to halls they’ve walked before — though this time as a staff member, not as a student. Located in room 106, Mrs. Allison Mullay holds a new role as district social worker.

“[The addition of a social worker] has been a goal of Mrs. Buchman [the district’s director of special education] for many years,” high school principal Mrs. Beth Guarriello said. “The district received grant money due to the pandemic, which is how we were able to pay for the position.” 

Mrs. Mullay earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from Kutztown University and her Masters of Social Work (MSW) degree from Widener University.  She is certified as a social worker for grades K-12. 

Mrs Guarriello notes that given her certification, Mrs. Mullay will be able to serve students in the entire district despite her office existing within the walls of Southern Lehigh High School.

As a graduate of Southern Lehigh, Mrs. Mullay feels that she is uniquely qualified for the position due to her first-hand experience with the area. Prior to working at Southern Lehigh she spent 14 years serving students and families around the Lehigh Valley.

“After I graduated from Kutztown, I started working right away for Kids Peace and Carbon Lehigh Intermediate Unit 21 (CLIU-21) with kids with challenges in homes and schools,” Mrs. Mullay said. “As I continued to work, specifically in the Allentown School District, I saw the need for more resources for students. I decided to go back to school and get my MSW so I could help my students more and to effectively understand the social and emotional struggles they might be having.”

As district social worker, Mrs. Mullay’s job is to act as Southern Lehigh’s mental health professional who looks at the entire student and their life’s history, combining family, educational, and community resources to help students in need.  

 Outside of school, Mrs. Mullay enjoys the beach and spending time with her family. She is married and has three children and a mini Labradoodle, which she loves to take for daily walks. Her favorite thing in her room is the sign that reminds both students and staff to “Focus on the good” and remain positive. 

 Mrs. Mullay wishes the students of Southern Lehigh all the best, and hopes that they can balance stress and fun and to enjoy each day. She also hopes that the students of Southern Lehigh always remember her favorite quote from Maya Angelou:  “If you must look back, do so forgivingly. If you must look forward do so prayerfully. However, the wisest thing you can do is be present in the present…gratefully.” 

To contact Southern Lehigh’s new social worker directly, students or families should use email, office phone, or cell phone. Mrs. Mullay’s school email address is [email protected], her office phone number is 610-282-1421 ext: 7106.