Miss Dez’s Boutique Reopens to Support Sanislo Families

Sanislo Elementary School celebrated the grand reopening of Miss Dez’s Boutique—the school’s food pantry and essential supplies hub—with a ribbon‑cutting ceremony on March 18. The reopening marked an important milestone for a space that ensures students and families have reliable access to food and basic necessities, while also honoring the leadership and compassion behind it. 

Led by school social worker Dezirae “Miss Dez” Brown, the pantry provides shelf‑stable food, snacks, clothing, shoes, and school supplies. The need is real and ongoing. This fall, when some Sanislo families faced the possibility of losing access to food and other necessities, Miss Dez quickly stepped in—organizing a pantry to ensure students had what they needed to come to school ready to learn. 

What makes the space especially powerful is its intentional design. Called a “boutique,” the pantry is set up so families can browse and choose items that work best for them—just like a store. This approach helps remove stigma, preserve dignity, and create a welcoming environment where families feel respected, supported, and valued. 

Since its launch, Miss Dez has continued to expand the boutique’s offerings to meet the evolving needs of the community. Today, it stands as a reflection of her deep commitment to the well‑being of Sanislo students and families—and to the belief that access to basic needs is essential for student success. 

The reopening celebration also honored Miss Dez for her broader impact. She was recently named Washington School Social Worker of the Year by the National Association of Social Workers – Washington, recognizing her advocacy and unwavering dedication to students and families. 

Miss Dez’s Boutique is just one example of the care she brings to her work every day. From creating safe spaces for social‑emotional learning and guided counseling to empowering students to find their voices and stand up for their communities, Miss Dez leads by example—helping everyone she works with feel seen, supported, and uplifted. 

For Sanislo Elementary, the boutique is more than a pantry. It’s a promise to families that they are not alone—and a powerful reminder of what’s possible when schools lead with compassion.