Provide counseling to individuals, families, couples, and children

School Social Workers are required in Illinois and are part of the Pupil Personnel Services Team. School Social Workers provide counseling to students individually or in small groups on school-related issues that may be impacting their education. They also faciliate classroom social skills lessons, provide support to teachers and parents, complete Social Developmental Studies and evaluate students to help determine Special Education eligibility. School Social Workers also provide professional development to school personnel and serve on various district-wide and school-wide committees. It is important for School Social Workers to be familiar with community agencies that can provide additonal support to students and their families. A School Social Worker is an advocate for the student and their family and helps them understand the Special Education process.