Social Work Corner

Your School Social Worker

The school social worker (SSW) can help students develop their individual potential to the fullest extent. The SSW brings to the school setting an understanding of the social/emotional development of children and the influence of family, community, and cultural difference.

Parents and teachers are encouraged to talk with the SSW when social/emotional factors or behaviors are thought to limit a student’s school performance.

The SSW will work with parents and teachers to facilitate greater understanding of the developmental and the environmental changes that a student experiences. Together they may formulate a plan based on this understanding of interactions

The school social worker can:

• Assist in the identification, clarification, and resolution of difficulties that impact on 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.

• Evaluate students who are referred for possible special education services and evaluate students who currently receive special education services.

• Assist with prevention activities by serving on committees, planning programs, and teaching classes

• 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 resources for classroom units on specific topics, such as: peer relationships, social skills, transitions.

• Act as a liaison to facilitate communication among the family, school, and community resources.

• Provide crisis intervention services.

For more information contact Kate Schleyer, your school social worker at Bower Elementary School (630) 393-9413.