Tuesday, March 3, 2020
Be sure to take a moment this week to take some time to give an added “thank you” to your school social workers for all they do in helping students and the community. School Social Work Week (March 1-7) represents a time when the incredible work of those in the profession is especially recognized.
The theme of this year’s celebration is, “Lighting the Way,” apt for the support school social workers offer on a regular basis. Not only do they provide guidance and hope for students and families, school social workers also help individuals and systems move through difficult changes while providing stability and grounding — a reliable light remaining true and bright, regardless of the rough waters crashing around them.
If you know a school social worker, then you’re familiar with the warmth of their smile, the genuine compassion of their actions, and the leadership they bring to any setting. What you may not fully realize, however, is the breadth of knowledge and experience they have, along with the countless tasks they complete each day in the service of others.
Integral parts of schools, school social workers in Wisconsin are mental health professionals who hold a master’s degree with extensive training in organizational leadership and individual, group, and systems interventions. School social workers are different from other social workers, as they are fully trained in child development, school law and ethics, special education services, assessment and intervention of children and youth, school-specific interventions, and knowledge of teaching standards.
In addition to providing support to students facing barriers stemming from outside of school, school social workers also lead problem-solving teams, consult on policy and practice, lead equity efforts, conduct in-home visits, help create comprehensive school-based mental health support systems, and much more.
In honor of School Social Work Week, you can show your appreciation to school social workers by sending them a personalized note, making an announcement over the intercom system, or having students create cards.
Eligible school districts, private schools, and independent charter schools can receive reimbursement for specific expenditures on social workers. Click here to learn more about this program, and to fill out a claim form. The deadline for reimbursement for the 2018-19 school year is Friday, March 6.