This page was developed as a part of a larger effort to support school social worker leadership in addressing issues of racial equity and social justice.  Our SSWAA model calls for school social workers to address education rights and advocacy as a critical component of the work that we do.  School social workers are well positioned to be transformational leaders in promoting equity, inclusivity and supportive school environments. Guiding efforts to heal our communities is fundamental to our practice not only through the direct services provided, but also through advocacy efforts. Despite these unprecedented challenges facing our nation, school social workers’ knowledge and expertise are integral to the health and well-being of the individuals and communities we serve. 

 

As school social workers, we need to assess our own spheres of influence and our skill sets, thinking about how we can use our strengths, develop new skills, and be willing to be courageous and take risks in order to enact anti-racist and anti-oppressive practices in order for collective healing to begin. Before you can provide support or to become an agitator to disrupt the toxic systems continually causing harm, take a moment to pause, breathe and reflect upon where you are. Tap into practices that help you find essential grounding. Then once you have re-centered, please lean into the variety of racial equity and social justice resources listed on our website to support you in this work.

 

Here are just a few items to help you:

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• SSWAA Common DEIBJ Language

• SSWAA Position Paper - Supporting Students, Families, and the Educational Community during the Trial of Former Police Officer Derek Chauvin

• SSWAA Position Paper - Solidarity Statement with Black Lives Matter