Unite to Ignite: SSWAA Wraps up another Inspiring National Conference

As the 28th annual National School Social Work Conference comes to a close, SSWAA is once again filled with deep gratitude and inspiration. This year’s event was a testament to the strength, compassion, and resilience of school social workers nationwide. Together, we explored essential topics shaping our profession, reconnected with our purpose, and left feeling more equipped than ever to support students and one another.

But the journey doesn’t stop here. We are excited to keep the learning going through our 2025 Virtual Conference, which includes on-demand access to several of the most impactful sessions—including the unforgettable keynote, “Supporting Children and Ourselves in the Aftermath of Grief and Loss” by expert in the field of grief and bereavement, Dr. David Schonfeld.

A Keynote That Resonated Deeply

In today’s schools, grief and loss are constant companions—whether stemming from personal tragedy, collective trauma, or ongoing post-pandemic struggles. This keynote offered a rare and compassionate space to pause, reflect, and reconnect—with our students’ needs and our own well-being.

Here’s what attendees had to say:

“This session was powerful and moving. It validated the importance of our role in helping children deal with grief while also encouraging us to acknowledge our own losses. I truly needed this.”

“Such an important topic and one that we don’t often allow ourselves the space to sit with. Thank you for giving us a safe place to reflect, breathe, and connect with each other.”

“I’ve attended many sessions in my career, but this one really stayed with me. The presenter’s words touched my heart and reminded me that healing is a shared process.”

“I cried. I needed to. And I left this session feeling more whole than when I walked in. That says everything.”

An Invitation to Reconnect—Virtually

This session goes beyond typical professional development—it’s a reminder of our shared humanity and the emotional weight of the work we do every day.

As one participant said:

“Supporting others through loss is part of our role, but no one teaches you how to carry it all. This keynote helped me understand that I’m not alone.”

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Our 2025 Virtual Conference option brings these powerful moments directly to you so that you can view sessions at your own pace, reflect on your practice, and fill your cup.

Join Us for the Virtual Conference

The Virtual Conference offers flexible, meaningful professional learning grounded in the real challenges and triumphs of school social work. If you’re looking for insight, inspiration, and a sense of renewed connection, don’t miss your chance to experience sessions like this one.

Register today at SSWAA.org and bring the spirit of the National Conference into your own space—wherever you are.

Let’s keep showing up for our students. And for ourselves.

Register Today