Chicago Area Social Worker Wears Many Hats To Be Successful
School social workers are needed in all school buildings as student's needs are substantial and those looking for help within a school typically turn to the school social worker.The Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor projects employment of social workers will grow 19 percent from 2012 to 2022, this is faster than the average for all occupations. Demand for health care and social services will escalate the employment growth, but will vary depending on specialty.
Alison Karl is a school social worker in Elgin School District U-46, and she is also a product of U-46. Karl has worked at a variety of schools in School District U-46 and grade levels.
Karl shares the positives and challenges of being a school social worker.
What are the responsibilities of your current role?
"My daily responsibilities include meeting the needs of many of the students at Willard School. I have many children with IEP's for social work and many who do not. My day usually begins with checking in with the students as they have breakfast. I have several students who I check in with daily. I usually start my groups at 9:00 a.m. and run groups and see students individually throughout the day. I am also responsible to respond to any types of concerns that may arise during the day throughout the building. I also write behavior plans, consult with co-workers, work with patents, consult with outside agencies, write reports and participate in meetings."
What is your favorite part of your daily duties?
"My favorite part of the day is when I see the students I work with engaged in learning and working hard in their classrooms. I also love seeing my students having fun and interacting with their peers. I also enjoy having lunch with my students. One of my favorite things has been to see many of my students grow over the last four years. I'm proud of the ones going to middle school but will miss them dearly."
Do you feel your education prepared you for your current role?
"I do feel my education prepared me for my job. I got my bachelors in psychology at North Central College and my masters in social work at Aurora University. I did an internship in U-46 and was able to work at Kimball, Willard and Oakhill. I have learned a lot over the years from my colleagues."
Do you have any advice for people who desire to pursue a similar career?
"My advice to anyone looking to be a school social worker is to realize that there is great joy in the job, but also stress and sadness. The needs of many students in schools these days are very great and many students need social work services to help them be successful in school."
Michelle Guilbeau is a writer, reviewer, teacher and business owner living in Chicago, Illinois. She also has experience in school administration, literacy coaching and is proud founder of CraftKitsForKids.com and MichelleGuilbeau.com Michelle enjoys sharing her knowledge of Chicago, food, travel, education and parenting issues with her readers. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
