Social Workers Month

Jordin Hugger • March 20, 2024

EMPOWERING SOCIAL WORKERS

The month of March shines a spotlight on Social Workers around the world! These dedicated individuals play a crucial role in schools, acting as a bridge between students, families, and the educational environment. They provide individual counseling, connect students with resources, and develop coping mechanisms to ensure their difficulties do not impede learning and lead to better overall mental health. They help students reach their full potential, develop healthy relationships, resolve conflicts peacefully, and communicate effectively, preparing them for success in future endeavors. Overall, social workers are valuable assets in schools, contributing to a positive learning environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

This year's Social Work Month theme, "Empowering Social Workers", perfectly captures the essence of their work. Our social workers exemplify this theme through their dedication and compassion – from providing counseling and crisis intervention to championing changes that promote success in all students.

Words from our Social Workers...

Ms. Firsichbaum:

“...Both of my parents and my older sister are social workers so I always joke that it must be in my DNA! I’ve always felt passionate about advocating for others and doing my part to make the world a better place…It is a privilege to enter the lives of others and to be that safe, supportive person who helps people during both their challenges and victories…This career requires more than just a college degree. It’s a career of lifelong learning and humbling real world experiences. You have to be patient, dedicated, and be willing to stand up for the right thing, even if you’re standing alone… ”

Mr. Crosby

“Dealing with personal challenges growing up I wanted to be able to share experiences and help those struggling with similar issues. Helping others and seeing progress is the most rewarding thing and the advice I’d give others is to remain patient.”

Ms. Gangadyal

“At a young age, I always felt the need to help others. I wanted to go into a field where I could make a positive impact on someone's life. Some of the best parts of being a counselor is being able to watch my students grow, navigate through changes, mature over time and to be able to provide them with a safe non-judgemental place for them to talk that is based on trust…The best advice I can give someone starting in a career is to be patient and know yourself. Empathy and compassion are essential in working with individuals. It is important to understand where the student is emotionally and meet them there.”

Ms. Pease:

“At Monmouth University I had an advisor that once told me that I would make a great social worker. It is very rewarding being able to help others and hopefully make a difference and impact in others lives. Advice I would give others is it may be exhausting at times, but it is worth it. Also, do not forget to take care of yourself or you will be no help to others.”

Ms. Corichi:

“Growing up in NYC Art was everywhere. Art gave me a purpose.. As an Art Therapist I can share the creative spirit with students in helping love themselves. The rewards come with watching the excitement of beautiful expressions created and shared in visual stories. Art can lead to self discovery.. Be confident in your own artistry and love what you do!”

Ms. Gallaudet

"From different experiences in my own life growing up, I wanted to become someone who could help others on both their good days and bad days, especially in the school environment. The most rewarding aspect of being a social worker is seeing progress and successes in those you work with. Advice I would give to someone considering a career in social work is to learn and grow from each experience you have in the field to be able to apply that to future situations."