Defending Education recently published an important report on the accreditation and credentialing process for the field of social work. Social work programs have seen drastic changes in recent years. Defending Education wants parents to be as informed as possible about the training programs of anyone who may come into contact with your child during the school day. Please click here to read the full report. 

Social workers can be important resources in a public school setting. Social workers can connect students and families with much-needed support, like health services, family services and food services. While these resources can be invaluable for some families, it is important to understand the role of social workers in your child’s school, and your district’s policy regarding parental involvement and notification should a certified social worker engage with your child. 

Defending Education has provided some questions you should pose to your district leadership about how social workers engage with minor-age students and the district’s policy on parental notification.

Please reach out to us at [email protected] if you have additional questions. 

What Parents Need to Know About Social Workers in Your School:

Does your child’s school have a dedicated social worker(s)? If so, how many? 

How many social workers does your school district employ? Are these full-time employees or contracted staff?

If your school or district has social workers, what are the names of social workers who may come in contact with your child?

What are the responsibilities of social workers in your district?

Does your district require parental notification if a social worker wants to talk with your child? 

Does your district require parental presence if a social worker engages with your child?

What are the required credentials for social workers in your district?

Who accredits the social workers in your district?

Does your district recognize that staff and teachers are mandatory reporters – meaning they are required by law to notify Child Protective Services if they believe a child is in danger.

To learn more about changes in the social worker accreditation field, read our report.