Description

Upon completion of this conference, participants will be able to:

1. Describe how role ambiguity and system-level factors contribute to the limited visibility of school social workers in middle school settings.
2. Explain how Role Theory, Ecological Systems Theory, and Interdisciplinary Collaboration inform school social work practice and team integration.
3. Identify key forms of invisible labor performed by school social workers that support student, family, and school outcomes.

 

Presenter Bio:

I am a school social worker with ten years of experience in the social work field, including the past five years working at the middle school level. In my current role, I support students and families through advocacy, collaboration, and intervention, with a focus on addressing social, emotional, and systemic barriers that impact student success. My work is grounded in a deep commitment to children and families, particularly those navigating persistent challenges within complex environments. I am also a wife and the mother of a three-year-old, roles that have further strengthened my passion for family-centered practice and reinforced the importance of equitable, responsive systems of care. These lived experiences inform how I show up as a practitioner, scholar, and advocate.

My doctoral capstone focuses on the invisibility and role ambiguity of school social workers within educational settings, with the goal of promoting greater role clarity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and intentional visibility of school social work practice. This work reflects both my professional experience and my commitment to advancing the field.

Looking ahead, I aspire to enter academia to contribute to teaching, research, and the preparation of future social workers, while also pursuing private practice to continue providing direct clinical support to children and families. Through these pathways, I hope to bridge practice and scholarship in a meaningful, sustainable ways.

 

Delivery Method: Live Interactive Training via Zoom Video Conferencing

Session not eligible for CE credit.

Target Audience: This conference is intended for social workers and students.

 

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in these presentations are those of the individual presenters and do not necessarily reflect the official policies or positions of the University of Kentucky or the College of Social Work. The inclusion of any topics, perspectives, or discussions is intended for academic engagement and does not constitute endorsement by the institution.