"After working for years with Ismalis when she served in Evanston as a school social worker it was clear that she is always student-centered first. Her ability to connect with students and families was simply unmatched by others in the field. She was an asset to the community and continues to be in any environment she is in."

"Ismalis came to our school and was the keynote for a school wide assembly. From the moment she engaged with our students, they were locked in. Her ability to connect with students to share her educational journey and encourage others to live in their true authentic selves is amazing. Our kids still comment on how impactful she was and how much they learned about others and more importantly themselves in a hour long assembly. If she can find a way to connect with 660 students in less than an hour, I can only imagine the impact she can make as a member of the GRSP school board. Her passion, knowledge, and professionalism will be a gift and I know she will make impactful and positive change to the district."