School Social Work

  • Why Do Today's Schools Need a School Social Worker?

    Children are increasingly victims of many social forces that can negatively affect their role as students. In addition, families are often in a state of change. Until it becomes stabilized, children's unmet physical and emotional needs may interfere with their learning ability and, ultimately, graduate from high school. School social workers are uniquely qualified to work with economically disadvantaged students, have poor attendance, and have special needs. School Social Work promotes academic achievement by supporting and linking students and families with school-based and community resources to enhance all areas of student development.

    CMS school social workers are assigned to targeted schools based on high need indicators.

Contact Us

  • Yvette Dyson Watson
    School Social Work Program Manager

    Office of Student Wellness & Academic Support

    Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools


    980-3436649 Phone
    980-343-3777 Fax

  • Who Are School Social Workers?

    School social workers are trained mental health professionals with a Master's degree in social work who provide services related to student and/or family social, emotional and life adjustment to school and or society. School social workers link the home, school, and community and provide direct and indirect services to students, families, and school personnel to promote and support students' academic and social success.

    School social workers reduce or eliminate barriers to student achievement by targeting four major areas of focus via the social work service delivery model. The areas of focus include: Assessment, Dropout Prevention (which includes attendance and truancy), McKinney-Vento Services and Crisis Intervention.