School Social Workers (SSW) are a vital part of the educational team, working together with educational administrators, teachers, counselors, psychologists, nurses, speech and language pathologists and other staff. Their unique graduate level training in social work enables them to understand and interpret the influences of the school, home, and community on children.
School Social Workers identify factors that can make school a more successful experience for students.
Achieve maximum benefit from their educational opportunities
Understand themselves and others
Cope with stress
Develop decision making skills
Participate effectively in their children's education
Understand and meet their children's social and emotional needs
Understand programs available to students with special needs
Utilize school and community resources effectively
Understand factors (cultural, societal, economic, familial, health, etc.) that affect students
Abilities to make maximum use of their school experience
Utilize their resources in meeting the educational, social, and emotional needs of students
Promote a safe school environment
Understand school policies, programs, and practice
Minimize those environmental factors which inhibit learning
Develop resources to adequately meet the needs of students and families