Social Worker's Corner

Social Work Information

What is a School Social Worker???

by Mrs. Hughes

December 06, 2006

SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK

The School Social Worker (SSW) can help students develop their individual potential to the fullest extent. The SSW can help students who are experiencing problems which interfere with their academic or social adjustment. Parents and teachers are encouraged to talk with their SSW when social, emotional or behavioral factors are thought to limit the child’s academic success. The SSW will work with parents and teachers to facilitate greater understanding of the developmental and the environmental changes that a student experiences.

YOUR SCHOOL SOCIAL WORKER CAN...

Assist in the identification, clarification, and resolution of difficulties that impact a student’s performance at school.
Plan appropriate techniques and strategies with parents, teachers, and/or students with the intent of improving student behavior in the school setting.
Provide information to parents about appropriate community resources based on evaluation of student needs.
Assist with prevention activities by serving on Student Assistance Team, coordinating the Mentor Program, and organizing Red Ribbon week.
Provide intervention to students who are experiencing family changes that may interfere with school performance (examples: death, divorce, remarriage, recent move, new family member, family member leaving home, financial difficulties).
Provide individual or group counseling, as appropriate, for students whose problems affect their school performance.
Provide classroom presentations for students (examples: respect, tolerance, bullying, responsibility)
Provide resources for classroom units on specific topics, such as: peer relationships, social skills, transitions.
Promote and develop school-wide character education programs and activities.
Act as a liaison to facilitate communication among the family, school, and community resources.
Provide crisis intervention services.