After 34 years of dedicated service, Jamene Farrell is retiring from her role as the school social worker at Seth Haley in West Haven.
When asked to reflect on her time in the district, Jamene shared that she began her career when there were only four social workers serving the entire West Haven Public School system. “I went to seven schools every week,” she said, listing Thompson, Stiles, Bailey, Our Lady of Victory, St. Lawrence, Notre Dame, and St. Anne’s School in Milford. As more social workers were hired over time, she became part of the district’s preschool team before eventually being based at Seth Haley. “That was so great to finally have a home school with my own office,” she said.
Farrell spoke highly of her time at Seth Haley, mentioning the strong leadership and staff she worked with throughout the years. “I loved working for Principal Rita Pepe,” she said. “And I could not get over how very generous the entire staff was at Christmas time to our students.” She also noted the support she received from Principal AJ Palermo over the last 12 years. “AJ was always open to any of my ideas and projects, and she was innovative with new ways to serve our families as well,” she said.
Reflecting on the people she worked with, Farrell added, “The staff at Seth Haley was the most compassionate group of people I have ever worked with, and because of our joint efforts, I never wanted to leave this job.” She gave special mention to school secretary Jackie Morrell, saying, “There is no one on earth more compassionate to our children and families than our secretary here, Jackie Morrell. She makes everyone feel welcome!”
When asked about her most memorable moment during her time with West Haven Public Schools, Farrell shared a standout experience that was both unexpected and meaningful: “Doing the Heimlich maneuver successfully on a choking student is definitely memorable!” she said, recalling the incident with pride and clarity.
In offering advice to those new to the profession, Farrell emphasized the importance of trust and connection. “I always considered it a privilege to get to know our kids so intimately, and for the families to trust me with their deepest feelings,” she said. With previous experience in both Superior Court and psychiatry, she felt she brought knowledge to the role that benefitted the families she served.
When asked what she will miss the most, Farrell responded, “Talking with the kids, meeting with the families, working together with the teachers, delivering Thanksgiving baskets, making Christmas cards… everything!” While she is looking forward to trying new things, volunteering, and traveling, she made it clear that her time in West Haven will always hold a special place in her heart. “I have a huge bucket list of places to go!” she added.
She also expressed deep gratitude to her husband, Michael Farrell. “I hope I made my husband proud. This is his hometown. Because of him, I ended up here. Thanks, Michael!” she said. She added that his example played a meaningful role in shaping her own commitment to service: “He taught me what it means to give back through volunteering.”
In closing, Jamene Farrell said, “It has been an absolute blessing to serve the families of West Haven. Thank you for letting me serve.”