Unlock Your Potential: Navigating the National School Social Worker Certification

By: Sara Duckery, LCSW, NCSSW, Fairfax County Public Schools, Northern Virginia

As a passionate school social worker with over 17 years dedicated to supporting students and families, the pursuit of National School Social Work Certification felt like the next appropriate next step in my career. Thankfully, my current employer offered this process in cohort model, which I jumped at the opportunity. From my undergraduate days at the University of Maryland, College Park, to earning my MSW at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, my career has been about empowering young people, primarily in middle schools, with a trauma-focused and child-centered approach. Now a proud member of Fairfax County Public Schools, my commitment to helping students and families thrive remains constant.

However, I’ll admit that the initial stages of the national certification process felt intimidating. It was tough at first, echoing a sentiment I’m sure many experienced social workers can relate to when returning to a more academic, competency-based evaluation after years in the field. What proved to be the cornerstone of my success? The invaluable cohort model facilitated by my FCPS managers, Carrie Mendelsohn and Lisa Rueda. Our managers of the school social work program were so helpful. They created a space monthly for us to meet and collaborate on our competencies, and even provided us time to work on them. This dedicated time and collaborative environment fostered a sense of shared purpose and mutual encouragement. This cohort model was invaluable because we were so supportive of each other.

Navigating the first competency presented a hurdle for me, having been out of an academic setting for over 14 years. The initial uncertainty was eased by a proactive introductory session. Meeting with Ken Ratioula and Michelle Alvarez at the beginning, which Lisa and Carrie helped plan, was so helpful. Once they told us we didn't have to submit a perfect piece and that we would receive constructive feedback, it made me feel more at ease. This emphasis on learning and growth over immediate perfection was crucial in building my confidence, so very hard for people in the helping profession.

As I progressed through the competencies, I began to find my stride. After about the 3rd competency, I was able to learn a good formula on what was expected and made the process a bit easier. My proactive approach to each competency also played a significant role. Before starting a competency, I used the competency organizer provided in our resources to choose each artifact for each indicator and write a brief outline. I would then search for research articles to help back up my practice. This intentional linking of practical experience with current research not only strengthened my submissions but also enriched my understanding of my own work.

Beyond the formal cohort, I cultivated a strong network of support. I also had a buddy system with another FCPS SW, Joanne Hartle, who was a great source of support in sharing ideas and supportive words. The understanding and encouragement extended to my home life as well. My husband was also supportive in this and understanding the time I needed to complete this work.

For me, the certification process surpassed simply earning a credential; it became a powerful catalyst for professional growth. This process really enhanced my practice because I was able to dig deeper, look critically at my work, and get ideas to improve. Engaging with research journals provided fresh perspectives and strategies to implement in my daily practice. Ultimately, the National School Social Work Certification process has provided me with a robust framework for my practice. This process has been invaluable in how it makes me look at my social work practice, using the national school social work model as a backdrop in all I do.

My experience offers valuable insights for other school social workers considering or currently navigating the national certification process. The journey may present initial challenges, but with dedicated support systems, a commitment to reflection, and a willingness to connect practice with research, it can be a transformative experience that elevates your skills and ultimately benefits the students and families you serve.

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National Certified School Social Worker ™ (NCSSWTM) is awarded through SSWAA to identify school social work professionals who have voluntarily sought and obtained an advanced certification that demonstrates mastery of competencies of the SSWAA National School Social Work Practice Model.

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