Breaking Barriers: Social Workers Empower Student Learning Across GPS

Behind every successful student is a dedicated team of educators who work tirelessly to support their academic growth. As a key part of this support system, social workers protect and maintain the mental safety of students while creating an environment that promotes learning and growth at every school.

School social workers are essential to the overall well-being of students. They offer support that is designed to give students, teachers, and parents the necessary tools to succeed in all aspects of life so students can focus on learning at school. By building relationships with students, offering individual and group sessions, crisis intervention, and behavior management, social workers aim to address the social and emotional needs of students, ultimately creating a supportive environment where they can thrive in the classroom. “Most of what we do is behind the scenes and can be viewed as preventative work,” said Kelly Linskey, a social worker at Canyon Valley School. “We really focus on establishing relationships with our students so we can gain their perspective and navigate toward solutions that help them focus on school.”

With their everyday responsibilities, social workers play an instrumental role in creating a supportive school environment. Students can face a variety of challenges ranging from housing and food insecurity to mental health barriers like anxiety or emotional distress. Having social workers on campus means students have a safe place to unload their stresses, alleviating the pressures students might feel and allowing students to focus on learning. 

“By providing students and families with the necessary support, our social workers and mental health counselors help break down barriers to learning and create a better educational experience for our students,” added Dr. Jason Martin, Assistant Superintendent of Elementary Education. “It is our job to provide students with the best education possible and our social workers help make sure that happens.”

The role that social workers play in student success, both academically and socially, is clear. However, the United States currently needs more social workers on school campuses. In Arizona, there are approximately 3,382 students for every 1 social worker. At Gilbert Public Schools, with a student population of over 31,000 and 40 social workers, the ratio is about 775 students per social worker. The National Association of Social Workers recommends having a social worker for every 250 students.

In an effort to provide the highest quality of support to as many students as possible, social workers at GPS have designated spaces for students to receive support. Zen Dens offer a physical place at school for students to manage their stresses and regulate their emotions. Zen Dens are calming environments that offer a quiet retreat where students can escape the pressures they might be feeling and focus on their mental well-being. Equipped with sensory tools such as weighted blankets, light boards, calming books, and more, Zen Dens create a soothing atmosphere that promotes relaxation. Zen Dens also offer opportunities for students to develop self-awareness and coping mechanisms. Through post-break surveys, students reflect on their experiences, identifying strategies to manage stress and prevent future occurrences. By empowering students to take control of their emotional well-being, Zen Dens serve as an invaluable resource in supporting student success.

School Gardens are another place for students to de-stress and recharge. These gardens, made possible through community partnerships and donations, serve as a middle ground between the quiet, relaxing environment of Zen Dens and socializing with other students on the playground. While in the garden, students learn about planting crops, composting, and worm farms while working on social skills and building a connection to the school. As students plant fruits and vegetables, they get to come to school every day to care for the plants and watch them grow. When the crops are ready to be picked, students are able to take them home to enjoy with their families which also offers a sense of accomplishment. Because they provide a relaxing space where students can learn with others, gardens also serve as an excellent transition for students arriving on campus that prepares them for a day of learning.

To cultivate a thriving and supportive learning environment, schools must prioritize the well-being of their students. School social workers play a crucial part in achieving this goal. By providing essential support, building strong relationships with students, and collaborating with educators, social workers create a foundation for academic success.