Professional Resources
Role of a School Social Worker
School social work is a specialized area of practice within the broad field of the social work profession. School social workers bring unique knowledge and skills to the school system and the student services team. School Social Workers are trained mental health professionals who can assist with mental health concerns, behavioral concerns, positive behavioral support, academic, and classroom support, consultation with teachers, parents, and administrators as well as provide individual and group counseling/therapy. School social workers are instrumental in furthering the mission of the schools which is to provide a setting for teaching, learning, and for the attainment of competence and confidence. School social workers are hired by school districts to enhance the district's ability to meet its academic mission, especially where home, school and community collaboration is the key to achieving student success.
School social workers are trained mental health professionals who address students' social, emotional, and life adjustments within educational settings. They serve as vital links between home, school, and community, providing direct and indirect services to support students' well-being and academic success.”
School Social Work Standards
The School Social Work Association of America has created standards to provide frameworks to guide practitioners work.
School Social Work Standards
Social Emotional Learning Standards
SSW National Model
The National School Social Work Practice Model serves as a strategic guide, focusing on key roles that directly support student achievement and educational equity. It emphasizes the integration of training, standards, and practice to enhance the effectiveness of school social work services.
Evidence Based Practice
Evidence-based practice (EBP) in school social work involves integrating the best available research, clinical expertise, and client values. This approach ensures that interventions are empirically sound, culturally sensitive, and tailored to the unique needs and experiences of students and their families.”
FREE online Systemic Reviews (Research Journals) for all Visitors of our Site can be accessed from some of our most trusted “go-to’s:
- Campbell Collaboration
- Cochran Library
- California Evidence-Based Clearinghouse
- What Works Clearinghouse
School Social Work and Social Justice
School social workers are positioned to lead efforts in addressing racial equity and social justice within educational settings. The SSWAA model emphasizes the importance of advocating for educational rights and equity, recognizing the critical role social workers play in promoting inclusive and fair practices for all students.”
For more resources on social justice, please click here