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

A PURPOSEFUL PAUSE Last month I had the pleasure of flying to Tucson, AZ to visit the site of SSWAA's upcoming National Conference in April of 2027. My husband is not able to travel with me very often, but this time, since the site visit was scheduled right before the Memorial Day Holiday, he was able to join me for the trip. The 3 weeks prior to this journey, he had been battling some illness which had caused some dizziness and issues with vertigo. Because of this, I was