STATEMENT OF CONCERN
MAY 2026
The School Social Work Association of Arizona is deeply concerned about the growing trend of eliminating school social work positions across entire districts in our state. This is a troubling and dangerous shift with serious implications for student well‑being and school safety.
School Social Workers bring a professional, comprehensive, and evidence‑based approach to supporting students’ social, emotional, and academic needs. Removing these positions increases the burden on an already depleted teaching workforce and dismantles a critical safety net that helps students thrive.
Student safety must remain paramount. Safety extends far beyond physical protection—it includes the social and emotional conditions that allow students to learn, connect, and flourish. These conditions are strengthened through:
- Strong, trusting relationships with adults
- An inclusive and welcoming school climate
- Support for social, emotional, and mental health
- Bullying prevention and a positive peer culture
- Opportunities for student voice, agency, and belonging
The CDC identifies school connectedness—students’ belief that adults and peers care about them and their learning—as a powerful protective factor. Connectedness reduces risks related to substance use, mental health challenges, and experiences of violence. It grows when schools:
- Build and sustain trusting relationships
-
Communicate high expectations paired with meaningful support
-
Engage families through collaboration and consistent communication
-
Create predictable, respectful, and supportive environments (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023)
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). School connectedness helps students thrive. https://www.cdc.gov/youth-behavior/schoolconnectedness/index.html
The School Social Work Association of Arizona (SSWAAZ) is Arizona’s Professional Association for School Social Workers, Founded in 1991, the organization was formed to foster communication and cooperation among school social workers throughout the State. SSWAAZ works to promote the profession of school social work in Arizona through professional development, collaboration and advocacy. The Association aims to engage all educational stakeholders in carrying out its mission, with the ultimate objective of improving outcomes for all Arizona students. SSWAAZ is the official State Affiliate Chapter of the School Social Work Association of America.
Our Mission
“To promote school social work in Arizona through advocacy, professional development and collaboration, thereby empowering students to achieve educational success.” –SSWAAZ Mission Statement-
Membership Benefits
- Monthly Newsletters
- Free and/or Discounted Professional Development through SSWAAZ
- School Social Work Association of America Membership (‘Premiere’ Tier)
- Mini-Grant Opportunities (Funded by Membership Dues)
- Communications including Resources, Employment and Networking Opportunities
- School Social Work Week Communication & Promotion to your District
The greater our membership, the stronger our voice in advocating for our profession and for our students at the local, state at National level. Together we can do so much!