Above and Beyond: The School Heroes Behind Our Back to School Undie Drive
Every year, we hear stories that remind us why our work matters.
Stories of teachers who buy supplies with their own money. School nurses who keep extra snacks in their office. Educators who stay late, arrive early, and quietly make sure students have what they need to succeed.
These are the people who see firsthand how unmet basic needs can impact a child's confidence, attendance, health, and ability to learn.
They are also the reason the Back to School Undie Drive is so important.
At The Undie Chest, we believe every student deserves the dignity and confidence that comes with having clean, properly fitting underwear. Through our Everyone Deserves Underwear (E.D.U.) Program, we partner with schools across the country to provide one of the most requested—and least donated—items for students in need.
This year, as we kick off our Back to School Undie Drive, we're shining a spotlight on the educators and school health professionals who inspire us every day.
In May, we proudly recognized Charlyn Morgan as the 2026 recipient of the Barbara J. Birks Above and Beyond Award for Teachers. Her story of mentorship, advocacy, and unwavering dedication exemplifies what this award was created to honor.
But Charlyn wasn't alone.
The nominations we received this year introduced us to an incredible group of educators, school nurses, counselors, administrators, and support staff who are making a difference in their schools and communities every day.
Throughout August, we're honored to share their stories.'
Sophia Lastovica
Resource Teacher
Sophia Lastovica was nominated by her principal, Sylvia Miller, who shared the following about her impact on students and the school community:
"As the resource teacher at Irene Lopez Elementary School, Ms. Lastovica serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade, managing a caseload of 38 students with diverse and often complex academic and social-emotional needs. Despite limited support and the absence of an additional resource teacher this year, she has approached her work with a consistently positive attitude, resilience, and an unwavering focus on doing what is best for students.
Ms. Lastovica has had a profound impact on the lives of her students. She builds strong, trusting relationships and creates a safe, supportive environment where students feel understood and empowered. Her classroom and presence on campus serve as a place of stability for many students navigating emotional and mental health challenges.
Her advocacy for students is truly exceptional. Recently, Ms. Lastovica went above and beyond to support a student who had initially not been accepted into Bioscience High School. Through her persistence, collaboration with school leadership, and detailed advocacy, she helped secure acceptance for the student. This life-changing opportunity was made possible because of her dedication and belief in her student's potential.
Beyond her work with students, Ms. Lastovica plays a critical role in strengthening the entire school community. She collaborates with staff to ensure students receive the support and services they need, serves on the Climate and Culture Team, leads the school yearbook program, coordinates eighth-grade promotion requirements, organized a Disney trip for students, and helped coordinate a large district-wide event involving 13 high schools.
Her compassion, expertise, and tireless advocacy have changed the trajectory of many students' lives. She exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond in service of others and is truly deserving of this recognition."
Victoria “Ms. Vicki” Bare
School Nurse
Known throughout her school community simply as "Ms. Vicki," Victoria Bare was nominated for the compassionate care she provides to students every day. Whether helping a child through a difficult health situation or offering reassurance during a challenging moment, she consistently treats students with dignity, kindness, and urgency, making a lasting difference in their lives.
Gisela Laprada
Teacher
Gisela Laprada was recognized for her deep connection with students and her ability to build meaningful relationships that extend beyond the classroom. Drawing from her own experiences, she creates a supportive environment where students feel understood, valued, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Help Students Start the School Year with Confidence
The educators featured here see firsthand how unmet basic needs can impact a child's ability to learn. Your support of the Back to School Undie Drive helps students focus on their future—not their wardrobe.
Marie Rico
Lead Nurse, Roosevelt School District
Marie Rico was nominated by colleague Veronica Cobbs, who highlighted her unwavering commitment to student health, safety, and well-being:
"Lead Nurse Rico consistently exceeds expectations through her dedication, expertise, and compassionate care. She has made a profound positive impact on students, staff, and the broader school community by ensuring that everyone's health and well-being are prioritized. Her presence provides a sense of safety and support, allowing students and staff to focus on learning and thrive academically.
Nurse Rico goes far beyond managing routine health needs. She proactively addresses concerns, educates students, staff, and families on wellness practices, and collaborates with colleagues to create healthier school environments. She has initiated health programs, provided guidance during emergencies, and offered personalized care that often goes unnoticed but leaves a lasting impact.
Her commitment to learning is equally inspiring. While serving her school community, she is also pursuing her master's degree because she believes in staying informed about the latest research and sharing that knowledge with others.
Even after school hours, Nurse Rico continues to serve. She attends sporting events and community activities to provide support when injuries occur and is always willing to step in and help when colleagues are absent.
Through her dedication, empathy, and tireless work, Nurse Rico has strengthened the lives of students, supported families, and enhanced the entire school community."
Elsa Alvarez
School Nurse
Elsa Alvarez has become a trusted source of comfort, care, and advocacy for students and families. Her nomination highlighted the countless ways she supports children beyond their medical needs, helping them feel safe, confident, and ready to learn.
Dr. Edmundo De Los Santos
Teacher
Dr. Edmundo De Los Santos was nominated for his commitment to academic excellence, student growth, and leadership. Through engaging instruction and a student-centered approach, he helps learners build confidence while fostering a classroom culture rooted in respect, curiosity, and achievement.
Every Pair Makes a Difference
School nurses and educators often become the first line of support when students face challenges. Your donation helps provide one of the most requested—and least donated—items in schools: underwear.
Support the Back to School Undie Drive →
Desiree Freeman
Teacher & Instructional Coach
Desiree Freeman was nominated for her ability to inspire excellence in both students and staff. Her positivity, leadership, and commitment to creating welcoming learning environments make her a cornerstone of her school community and a champion for student success.
Christine Wetzel
School Nurse
With nearly two decades of nursing experience, Christine Wetzel has dedicated her career to caring for children and supporting families. Her nomination reflects the compassion, professionalism, and unwavering commitment she brings to her role every day.
Joan Shin
Junior High Math Teacher
Joan Shin was nominated by colleague Junie Monongye, who shared a heartfelt account of the many ways Joan quietly supports students and families:
"Mrs. Shin is a wonderful and dedicated teacher who consistently puts students first. She is often an anonymous donor for our students and families. If a student needs a backpack, glasses, school supplies, or assistance with medical expenses, she willingly contributes and always asks that her name be kept anonymous.
She offers tutoring before school and after school, helps support various school activities through donations, and is deeply committed to her profession. Mrs. Shin maintains high expectations for her students because she believes in their ability to succeed and wants to ensure they have every opportunity to excel academically.
Her support extends beyond the classroom. She frequently attends after-school sporting events to cheer on students and show them that someone is invested in their success.
Mrs. Shin is truly an angel in disguise. Through her generosity, encouragement, and dedication, she has helped countless students succeed both academically and personally."
We are honored to recognize Joan Shin as a 2026 Barbara J. Birks Above and Beyond Award nominee.
Partner With Us to Support Students
The Back to School Undie Drive isn't possible without the support of retailers, businesses, community organizations, and corporate partners.
Whether you're interested in hosting a collection drive, becoming a sponsor, organizing an employee giving campaign, or making a financial contribution, your partnership helps ensure students have access to the essentials they need to succeed.
Together, we can help more children walk into school feeling confident, comfortable, and ready to learn.
Looking to get involved as a sponsor or partner? We’d love to collaborate. Email us at contactus@brarecycling.com.
A Message from Elaine Birks-Mitchell
When we created the Barbara J. Birks Above and Beyond Award, we wanted to honor the educators and school nurses who pour so much of themselves into helping students succeed.
Every nomination reminds us that there are extraordinary people working in our schools who care deeply about the well-being of children.
As we celebrate these remarkable school heroes, we also invite our community to join us in supporting students through our Back to School Undie Drive.
Because dignity matters.
Confidence matters.
And sometimes the smallest necessities can make the biggest difference.
After all, dignity starts with feeling good undie-neath.