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

Each June, communities across the United States recognize Pride Month, a time dedicated to honoring the history, resilience, and contributions of LGBTQ2S+ individuals. For schools, and for School Social Workers in particular, Pride Month offers an opportunity to reflect on how we can continue fostering environments where every student feels seen, valued, and supported. This month is not only about celebration. It is also about acknowledging the ongoing work of creating school

A PURPOSEFUL PAUSE If you've ever played a team sport, or even if you have not, you have probably heard the saying, "There is no 'I' in team." This theme is used by many coaches and leaders to emphasize the importance of teamwork, sacrifice, and selflessness. "It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit." - Harry Truman Some of the most important work in schools happens quietly, behind the scenes, and without recognition. And

A PURPOSEFUL PAUSE Resilience is a word we hear often in school social work. It’s usually framed as an individual trait—something we’re expected to summon when the work gets hard. It is often described as the ability to bounce back after a challenge or set back. It is viewed as the ability to adapt in the face of opposition. It can be framed as coping when presented with tough circumstances. But this month’s A Purposeful Pause invites us to think about resilience differen

with Keynote Speaker Kenneth L. Bourne Jr. Every meaningful conference begins with a question: What will inspire us to think differently when we return to our schools on Monday morning? At this year’s conference, centered on the theme “Gateway to Change,” attendees will leave with more than inspiration—they will leave with a powerful framework for transforming the way schools create safety, belonging, and healing for students and staff alike. That transformation begins with