Who are School Social Workers?

      School Social Workers are professionally trained service providers who act as the link between the home, school and community.  School Social Workers have extensive training in human development and behavior, mental health theory and practice, systems theory, organizational development, policy development and social science research methods. School Social Workers are skilled in providing individual, family and group counseling, completing assessments (identifying barriers to school and personal success) and developing and implementing prevention and intervention strategies.  School Social Workers serve on multidisciplinary teams and collaborate with various school personnel and community stakeholders to better meet the academic, social, emotional and behavioral needs of students.

      School Social Workers are required to hold a Master of Social Work degree and are certified through the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.  Several School Social Workers hold community leadership positions, serve on child advocacy coalitions, hold clinical licenses, teach at the collegiate level and develop policies and procedures related to educational success.

      Reasons to Refer to your School Social Worker

         Services can include, but are not limited to:

Mental health issues

Crisis intervention

Conflict resolution/mediation

Medical/physical health issues

Resource coordination/referrals to community agencies

Academic and discipline issues

School attendance problems/truancy

Family problems

School age pregnancy

Bullying

Domestic violence and student violence

Suicidal/self-harm statements

Substance abuse

Child abuse and neglect suspicions

Homelessness/transition issues

SST and IEP involvement

Teacher/Administrator consultation

School improvement planning

Evidence-based strategies for behavior intervention plans

Resources Links:

Articles on Child and Adolescent Mental Health

Child Abuse Reporting Form

Community Resources

Counseling Resources

DFCS Guidelines for the Supervision of Children

Frequently Asked Questions

Medical Care and Clinics for the Uninsured

Resources for Students Leaving High School Prior to Graduation 
Shelters and Transitional Housing 

School Social Worker's School Assignments 

Student Attendance Protocol Procedures