Becoming a school social worker in Michigan involves meeting specific criteria set by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE). This path ensures that professionals are well-equipped to support students' diverse needs within educational settings. Here's a comprehensive guide to understanding these requirements and how you can embark on this fulfilling career.
Educational Requirements
To qualify as a school social worker in Michigan, candidates must possess a Master of Social Work (M.S.W.) degree. This degree must be accompanied by demonstrated knowledge and competency aligned with MDE standards. At Michigan State University (MSU), these competencies are addressed through a series of courses designed to prepare graduates for the challenges of school social work.
Required Courses
- SW 873: Social Work in Educational Settings - Offered during Fall and Summer A sessions.
- SW 874: Assessment and Testing in School Social Work - Available in even years during Spring and Summer A sessions.
- SW 875: Intervention: Children with Special Needs - Available in odd years during Spring and Summer B sessions.
For those who have already obtained their M.S.W., MSU provides Continuing Education Courses to help meet state competencies. These include:
- CE 473: Social Work in Educational Settings
- CE 474: Assessment and Testing in School Social Work
- CE 475: Intervention: Children with Special Needs
The "School Social Work Refresher" (SW 891) course is also available online for those needing to renew their temporary approval status.
The Role of a School Social Worker
A school social worker plays a vital role in supporting students' social, emotional, and behavioral needs. Their responsibilities include:
- Counseling students and families using an ecological framework.
- Collaborating with school staff to enhance students' mental health and learning experiences.
- Implementing behavior intervention strategies and providing training to parents and staff.
- Liaising with community resources to foster positive educational outcomes.
- Conducting crisis intervention services and developing behavior intervention plans.
Approval Process for School Social Workers
The journey to becoming a fully approved school social worker begins with obtaining temporary approval, which is granted for the initial year of employment upon meeting MDE's criteria. Key steps include:
- Complete Required Education: Earn an M.S.W. degree and fulfill the competency requirements through MSU or another approved institution.
- Gain Field Experience: Complete a minimum of a 500-clock-hour supervised practicum focused on working with children and families, preferably in a school setting.
- Secure Employment: Obtain a commitment from a school district that will apply for your temporary approval recommendation to the MDE.
The transition from temporary to full approval requires successful completion of one year of employment under supervision. School districts must provide written documentation confirming satisfactory performance during this period.
TinyEYE's Support for Schools
TinyEYE offers valuable online therapy services that complement the work of school social workers. Our tailored programs ensure students receive the necessary support to thrive academically and emotionally, especially those with special needs or undergoing crisis interventions.
If you're interested in more detailed information on becoming a school social worker in Michigan, please follow this link.
