School social workers to be honored in March

National School Social Work Week will be celebrated by the Fayette County Public School System March 2 – 6.

The week is organized by the School Social Work Association of America to bring community awareness to, and recognition of, the valuable services provided by the school social worker.

Fayette has three full-time social workers, and one part-time social worker, who provide services to students and their families at all schools in the district.

The school social worker was originally established as a visiting teacher responsible for promoting student attendance. Today, these highly trained and skilled professionals focus on the nonacademic factors beyond the classroom that influence learning, including family and community factors.

School social workers are trained mental health professionals who offer a range of services for students facing challenges. These include improving the climate for learning, crisis intervention, mental health services, and counseling.

School social workers are instrumental in improving the educational outcomes of students in need by lending critical supports to help them reach their full potential.

They are the link between the home, school and community in providing both direct and indirect services to students, families, and school personnel to promote and support students’ academic and social success.