SSWAAZ Members,
Early in April, the School Social Work Association of America hosted its annual school social work conference in Orlando, Florida. Attendees had the opportunity to attend breakout sessions targeting specific interventions and tools for school social workers. Attendees also heard from excellent keynote speakers, including Myrna Mandlawitz (SSWAA Government Relations Director) and a panel of students from Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida. It was an inspirational conference, and we encourage our members to attend future national and state conferences.
Because of the increased research on ACEs and long-term effects of childhood trauma, we have seen a new pattern emerging in the field of child mental health focusing on neuroscience. An increasing amount of research has shown the benefits of mental health professionals using neuroscience based models in their work with youth. We encourage our SSWAAZ members to continue learning about neuroscience and childhood brain development, as well as use it in your work with students and staff.
In discussing national and state trends and issues with SSWAA board members and state board members from across America, we are all very enthusiastic about the potential school social workers have across the nation. We are at a pivotal point where school safety is on the forefront of many American’s minds. We know that school social workers are critical in creating a positive school climate, as well as providing mental health supports. Much of our nation wants to see more mental health professionals in schools, and we at SSWAAZ want to be a part of this movement!
However, to advocate for our communities, we must recognize there is strength in numbers. SSWAAZ is calling on all members to reach out to colleagues and encourage them to register to become a member of SSWAAZ and SSWAA. We have big dreams to achieve, and we need more members to be successful.
The American School Counselor Association is very actively working with legislation to increase the number of school counselors, and has a large enough membership to fund three lobbyists to support them. Currently, legislation and school safety laws being considered across the nation do not include school social workers.
On behalf of all of us at SSWAAZ, your work is valuable and vital. Let’s work together to become more visible.
Sincerely,
Capella Hauer
SSWAAZ Vice-President