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As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, School Social Workers remain deeply committed to the year-round work of supporting student mental health and well-being. The SSWAA National School Social Work Practice Model 2.0 places student well-being at the heart of our profession.

As a military spouse of 28 years, my career has often been spotty. My educational journey was similar, as I finally received my bachelor's degree from Wilmington University in Delaware while continuing my graduate studies at the University of Alabama all while managing three children and a husband who frequently deployed

Music is powerful. It stirs emotions, sparks memories, energizes action, and unites people. Whether it's the calming rhythm of a soft ballad, the drive of a high-energy anthem, or the pride of a school song, music speaks—and it gets heard. Some play it in the background;

School social workers across the country face job uncertainty due to grant expirations, discontinuations of grants, shifting district priorities, and other funding cuts. These losses affect not only school social workers and their families but also the thousands of students who rely on our services. In times like these, solidarity matters.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and across the nation, educators, students, and families are reflecting on how mental health shapes every corner of school life. At the School Social Work Association of America (SSWAA), we believe this is more than a moment—it’s a movement to embed mental health into the heart of education through Social, Emotional, and Behavioral Learning (SEBL).

School social workers play a vital role in supporting the emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs of students and their families. But who supports the social workers?

In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, the role of school social workers is more vital—and more visible—than ever before. With this increased visibility comes increased responsibility and, unfortunately, greater exposure to risk. That’s why liability insurance isn't just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have.

What They Are, What They Are Not, and How School Social Workers Can Respond

As autumn transforms the landscape with its vibrant colors and crisp air, it is a fitting time to celebrate the remarkable individuals who guide our organization. Our board members bring not only a wealth of experience but also their unique passions and fall favorites that enrich our community. Their dedication drives our mission forward and makes a meaningful difference.

As school social workers, we know the emotional, mental, and physical toll our work can take. We are the steady hands supporting students, families, and schools through crises, transitions, and day-to-day challenges. But who supports us? How do we replenish the energy we pour into others? The answer is found in self-care—not the superficial, individualistic practices often portrayed, but the radical, collective self-care envisioned by Audre Lorde.

Elections can be a stressful time for students and their families, with high emotions and political divisions often impacting the school environment. School Social Workers (SSWs) are in a unique position to support students’ mental and emotional well-being during these times, creating a space for students to process their feelings