Empowering Winooski Students: District Officer Saja Almogalli’s Mission
Officer Saja Almogalli, a former refugee from Iraq, has taken on a new role as the district liaison officer for the Winooski School District. Since late fall 2024, she has dedicated herself to ensuring the safety and well-being of students in the district. Almogalli’s journey to this position has been marked by personal hardships and triumphs, making her uniquely qualified to connect with the diverse student population in Winooski.
An Inspiring Journey
Almogalli’s path to becoming a district liaison officer was shaped by her experiences as a refugee fleeing conflict in Iraq. After losing her father and facing threats in her home country, she found herself in Turkey, where she and her family were denied access to education due to their immigrant status. Despite these challenges, Almogalli took it upon herself to learn English and educate her siblings while in limbo.
From Refugee to Role Model
After resettling in the U.S. and overcoming language barriers, Almogalli pursued higher education at the University of Vermont. She became the first member of her family to attend college in America, majoring in biology and later switching to studying health and society. Inspired by her family’s struggles with education, she ran for the Burlington School Board and won a seat, furthering her commitment to public service.
A Beacon of Hope for Winooski Students
Now, as the district liaison officer for Winooski schools, Almogalli is determined to make a positive impact on students’ lives. She aims to provide a safe and inclusive environment for students to thrive academically and personally. Drawing on her own experiences of distrust in law enforcement, she hopes to build bridges with students and foster a sense of community and trust within the school district.
Almogalli’s story is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of education to transform lives. As she works tirelessly to empower Winooski students, she continues to embody the spirit of hope and possibility for all those she serves.
