SDoL is excited to announce an important update that highlights our commitment to student success and family engagement. Our Student and Family Resource Specialists will now be known as School Social Workers, a title that more accurately reflects their critical role in supporting the well-being of students and families across the district.
School Social Workers are vital members of our educational teams, collaborating with school staff to remove barriers to education and ensure students have the support they need to succeed academically and personally. By focusing on improving attendance, enhancing academic achievement, providing mental health support, and fostering community involvement, these professionals play a key role in creating an inclusive and supportive school environment.
This title change follows the introduction of the Pennsylvania School Social Worker certification several years ago, which aligns with the expertise and responsibilities our team has been delivering for years. Initially hired under a grant to support mental health, advocacy, and resource connection in a small number of schools, the team has expanded district-wide. All School Social Workers hold relevant licenses, including Licensed Social Workers (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW), meeting the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s certification requirements. SDoL’s team brings expertise from recognized social work programs and hands-on experience in areas such as mental health care, crisis intervention, restorative practices, and family outreach.
“This change not only acknowledges the essential work of our social workers but also reflects our dedication to creating trauma-sensitive schools and improving student outcomes,” said Amy Marenick, Behavioral Health Services Coordinator. “Our social workers are a crucial part of helping students find their place, ensuring equitable access to resources, and linking families to community supports.”
We are committed to continuing the essential work of our School Social Workers. Looking ahead, the district will focus on enhancing trauma-sensitive practices and providing additional support to classroom teachers to minimize the loss of instruction as they ensure student well-being. While there are no immediate plans to expand the role, we aim to align the social worker-to-student ratio more closely with national recommendations.
School Social Workers will continue to provide individual therapy, check-ins, mediation, and assistance with basic needs, while also working with families to address chronic absenteeism and connect them with needed resources. Their collaboration with staff and external agencies—ranging from mental health services to Children and Youth agencies—ensures a holistic approach to student success.
This title change is part of our ongoing efforts to align resources and strategies with our district’s mission to provide equitable, high-quality education to all students. We look forward to continuing this journey with the dedication and expertise of our School Social Workers.
The School District of Lancaster is excited to move forward with this new chapter, where our School Social Workers will continue to be champions of student success, family support, and community engagement.