Why Liability Insurance Matters More Than Ever for School Social Workers

In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, the role of school social workers is more vital—and more visible—than ever before. With this increased visibility comes increased responsibility and, unfortunately, greater exposure to risk. That’s why liability insurance isn't just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have.

Understanding the Risk

School social workers serve on the front lines of student support, addressing everything from mental health needs and family crises to behavioral interventions and educational advocacy. As our scope of work continues to expand, so too do the legal and ethical complexities surrounding our practice. Whether you're managing a sensitive situation with a student or navigating a difficult discussion with a parent or administrator, even the most careful professionals can find themselves facing unexpected challenges.

In an era of heightened scrutiny and shifting policies, protecting your license, reputation, and livelihood is essential. Liability insurance provides a critical safety net, ensuring that you can continue to do your work confidently and effectively.

SSWAA’s Commitment to Protecting You

At SSWAA, we understand the unique responsibilities and risks that school social workers face. That’s why we offer professional liability insurance as a core benefit of membership. Our policy pays up to $250,000 for damages arising from professional liability and employment liability lawsuits, giving you peace of mind and tangible protection.

Here are a few key features of the coverage provided through SSWAA membership:

• Protection for employed work

• Coverage for legal fees and settlement costs

• No deductible

• Coverage that follows you across jobs and states (if practicing within the scope of licensure)

This is not just any insurance—it’s insurance designed specifically for school social workers, by an organization that advocates for you.

Affordable, Comprehensive Peace of Mind

What makes this benefit even more valuable is that it’s included at no additional cost with your SSWAA membership. For as low as just $50 a year (Basic Membership) SSWAA members receive liability insurance and a host of other benefits—advocacy at the national level, exclusive resources, professional development opportunities, and a supportive network of peers who understand the unique demands of the field.

With rising pressures in schools and communities, your work is more important than ever. Your protection should be, too.

Join or Renew Today

Whether you're a veteran practitioner or new to the field, now is the time to ensure you're covered. Visit www.sswaa.org/insurance to learn more about liability insurance coverage and explore the full range of membership benefits.

At SSWAA, we stand with school social workers—every day, in every way. And with professional liability insurance in your corner, you can stand even stronger.

---

This content has been generated using AI.  Content has been reviewed by and edited by SSWAA staff and/or committee members.