What does it take to present at a national conference? According to Dr. Shericka Smith and Antonio Melton, it starts with something surprisingly simple: a desire to share what you've learned. In this latest SSWAA Conference Conversations podcast episode, host Dr. Emily Shayman sits down with Dr. Shericka Smith and Antonio Melton from Lexington, Kentucky, to discuss their experience preparing to present at the SSWAA National Conference and why stepping forward to share your wo

A PURPOSEFUL PAUSE Some of the most meaningful change happens quietly, steadily, and over time—and it still counts. We live in a society full of noise and hype. The noise of the radio, the television, machinery and traffic, not to mention the constant ding of notifications and reminders. We are bombarded by the dramatic. Huge spectacles on social media; headlines of the latest and "greatest" feat. Noise extends beyond what is audible to all the things that distract our focu

One of the most memorable moments from SSWAA’s National Conference in St. Louis came from a reflection interview with a group of school social work leaders from New York City Public Schools. As they perused the conference brochure, they realized something exciting: although each of them had submitted proposals independently, they had all been selected to present at the conference! The result? A flood of surprised text messages, laughter, pride, and a shared realization that t

Advocacy is often viewed as something extra—something reserved for policymakers, organizational leaders, or those comfortable speaking in front of legislators. But for school social workers, advocacy is much more than an optional activity. It is a professional responsibility and a natural extension of the work they already do every day. In SSWAA's latest podcast episode, Advocacy Associate Anidra Ragin sits down with two respected leaders in the profession: Abby Cobb, Coordin

Dr. Marina Badillo-Diaz, DSW, LCSW Board Secretary At the School Social Work Association of America (SSWAA), we believe that a strong professional association is built on transparency, connection, communication, collaboration, and meaningful member engagement. We are committed to creating opportunities for members to stay informed about the work being conducted on behalf of the profession and the association. To support this commitment, the SSWAA Board of Directors is pleased

What does it mean to be recognized not only for the work you do, but for the expertise, leadership, and impact you bring to students every day? In SSWAA's latest podcast episode, Advancing the Practice with National Certification, SSWAA Board member and NCSSW Lead Rater, Ken Rautiola, sits down with Joanne Hartle (Fairfax, Virginia) and Kimber Griffin-Espéron (Los Angeles, California) — both National Certified School Social Workers (NCSSWs) — to discuss how national certifica