From March 1-7, the district honored National School Social Work Week to honor social workers dedicated to advocating for the students, essential services, positive school policies and climate, and for access and equity for all throughout the year.

“National School Social Work Week is the perfect opportunity for raising public awareness about the vital role our social workers play in the schools," Superintendent Lisa Ruiz said. "And, right now more than ever, I am appreciative of their outstanding and ongoing efforts to support the students and families of East Rockaway. Even though school is not formally in session, these social workers are available should anyone be in need of support during this time.”

School social workers enhance the learning and success of students by focusing on the whole child and offer hope for a better tomorrow. They provide services related to a person’s social, emotional and life adjustment to school and society while offering a link between home, school and community.

In addition, they also promote a continuum of services, mobilize resources and promote assets, and link and coordinate community services for families in need. All the while, they honor the family’s cultural identity and bring a strong perspective and ecological perspective to working with students and families.

East Rockaway applauds the dedication and practice its social workers devote to the students and district community.