School social workers fill critical gaps in student care

School and community leaders recognize the essential role that social workers play in promoting student well-being.

By Michelle Williams, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Special Education Services, Inc. | March 21, 2023 As a social worker for an in-district classroom inside a Texas elementary school, I have the honor of serving some of the most vulnerable students in our community.

On World Social Work Day, it’s important to highlight the essential role social workers play in promoting the well-being of our students and their families.

Every day, I witness the incredible resilience of our students, who face challenges many adults would struggle to overcome. Food insecurity, trauma, and family instability are just some obstacles our students face, profoundly impacting their academic performance, emotional health, and future opportunities.

This is where social workers come in. Social workers are unique in the education system because we focus on both the student and their environment. I collaborate with special education teachers and staff to provide the support students need to thrive.
Social workers explore external factors impacting a child’s emotional and academic learning, identifying strategies to improve their situation. Our job is to help kiddos feel secure and be successful.

I truly believe social workers enhance the academic mission of a school or classroom by promoting success through collaboration between a student’s home, school, and community.

As part of the education team, social workers use their skills and connections to community resources to empower families to advocate for their child across multiple settings. Behind the scenes, we provide counseling to students struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma and collaborate with teachers to address behavioral challenges.

Despite our important role, social workers are often misunderstood and underutilized. However, I remain inspired by the resilience of the students in my classroom. Supporting them on their journey and helping them learn self-advocacy is a privilege.

On this World Social Work Day, I urge community leaders to recognize the critical role social workers play in promoting student and community well-being.

Read Original Article