School social workers promote and enhance the overall academic mission of the schools by providing services that strengthen home, school and community partnerships and address barriers to learning and achievement. School social workers contribute significantly to building and maintaining a healthy, safe and caring environment in the schools. School social workers help build an understanding of the emotional and social development of children and the influences of family, community and cultural differences on student success. Student success is ensured through the development and implementation of effective intervention strategies.
The school social worker’s main task is to empower students, families and school personnel to access available opportunities and resources to develop each student’s potential. Responsibilities of the social worker include bringing together home, school and community; promoting diversity and cultural competence; dropout prevention and graduation awareness. School social workers adhere to federal and state statutes, School Social Work Standards and the National Association of Social Workers Code of Ethics.
Social workers provide case management and support in the following areas:
- Homelessness
- Food Backpack Program
- Mental Health Referrals
- Attendance
- School Needs (supplies, fees, field trip expenses)
- 504 Plans
- Accessing Community Resources
- Christmas Connection
- Homebound Services
- Transportation
Attendance Policy
Early Intervention Team
In order to address chronic absenteeism and to help families avoid court involvement, Jackson County Public Schools formed the Early Intervention Team which is made up of representatives from Department of Juvenile Justice, Jackson County Public Schools, Jackson County Department of Social Services, local mental health agencies, and Tribal Agencies. A meeting will be scheduled and representatives from the agencies listed above will work with parents and students to identify issues contributing to chronic absenteeism and immediately connect families with local agencies capable of offering assistance.
HOMEBOUND / HOSPITAL PROGRAM SERVICES & PROCEDURES