March is Social Work Month. This week, March 1-7, we proudly recognize School Social Work Week. At the March Board meeting, Superintendent Dr. Keith Miles shared the district’s support for designating the week beginning March 1, 2026, as School Social Work Week and the month of March as Social Work Month.
School social workers play an essential role in the School District of Lancaster every single day. They support students who may be facing challenges that can interfere with learning, including poverty, family stress, bullying, mental health concerns, homelessness, disabilities, and other barriers. Their work sits at the intersection of education, wellness, and equity.
As outlined in our Strategic Plan, we are committed to fostering a Culture of Belonging where every student feels valued, supported, and empowered. School social workers are central to that commitment. They serve as licensed and certified mental health professionals who understand both the needs of students and the unique climate of our schools.
In a time when more students are experiencing mental and behavioral health needs and access to outside services is often limited, school-based support is critically important. Our social workers are often the first line of support. They help with early identification, prevention, intervention, counseling, and family engagement. They connect families to community resources and strengthen partnerships between home and school.
Research consistently shows that school social work services contribute to improved attendance, reduced disciplinary issues, and stronger academic outcomes. Even with that knowledge, many children who need mental health services never receive them. That reality makes the work happening inside our schools even more meaningful.
This recognition gives us an opportunity to honor the dedication, expertise, and compassion our school social workers bring to their work every day. Their impact extends far beyond an office or a single conversation. It shapes school climate, supports student growth, and reinforces our mission to celebrate and empower every learner.
To our school social workers across the district, thank you for the care you provide, the relationships you build, and the difference you make in the lives of our students and families.