Agenda Item
b. Proclamation: School Social Work Week ~ March 1-7, 2026
Summary: Presented by: Mr. Andrew B. Ziffer, Board Member, District 1
Request: It is requested that the DeKalb County Board of Education proclaim March 1-7, 2026, as School Social Work Week in the DeKalb County School District.
Why: School Social Workers are certified employees of the DeKalb County School District who work to empower individuals, families, communities, and our schools to overcome challenges that prevent them from sustaining and achieving their full potential.
Details: March 1-7, 2026, is School Social Work Week, and it is recognized both nationally and internationally.
Financial impact: There is no financial impact on the district.
Contact: Kishia K. Towns, Ph.D., Chief of Wrap Around Services, Division of Wrap Around Services, 678-676-1811
Mrs. Shelly Bishop, Coordinator, Social Work Services, Division of Wrap Around Services, 678-536-6749
Effective: Upon Board approval.
Status: Approval by the Office of Legal Affairs is not required.
Proclamation
SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK WEEK: MARCH 1-7, 2026
WHEREAS: For generations, social workers have strengthened individuals, families, and communities. School social workers
play a critical role in removing barriers to learning and well-being by supporting students, families, and schools
through complex challenges. Reflecting this mission, the DCSD Social Work Department’s theme this year is
“I’m a School Social Worker: Sparking Change, Creating Impact.”
WHEREAS: School social work is nationally recognized through federal legislation such as the Elementary and Secondary
Education Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. In DeKalb County School District, social
workers serve across 131 schools, providing comprehensive support to elementary, middle, and high schools,
as well as Student Services, GNETS, and S.A.F.E. Centers.
WHEREAS: The need for school social workers continues to grow as more students face mental and behavioral health
challenges. Nearly one in six young children have a diagnosed mental, behavioral, or developmental disorder,
while access to community-based services remains limited. School-based mental health services are essential
for early identification, prevention, and timely intervention to support student well-being.
WHEREAS: School social workers deliver critical consultation, assessment, resources, and family support services that
strengthen school safety and climate. With limited access to mental health care, school-based programs
improve student outcomes by reducing absenteeism and discipline while increasing academic success.
THEREFORE: NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the DeKalb County School District:
1. Supports the designation of School Social Work Week.
2. Honors and recognizes the contributions of school social workers to the success and well-being of
students across DeKalb County; and
3. Encourages the DeKalb County community to observe School Social Work Week through activities and
recognition efforts that highlight the vital role of school social workers in schools and communities.