This is , and 91制片厂 is highlighting our Student Outreach Services (SOS) department. This year’s theme for the week is 鈥淲e Rise,鈥 a perfect theme for the district鈥檚 school social workers who consistently 鈥渞ise up鈥 to support students, their families and their schools’ communities.
91制片厂鈥檚 SOS department 鈥渞ises up鈥 by sharing hope, challenging inequities and by listening to and supporting each student in their own unique situations.
Student Outreach Services collectively maximizes resources to enhance the social-emotional wellbeing and academic success of students. The department does this by assisting students and their families with their basic needs, offering help with medical expenses, shelter, food and clothing. SOS also assists with case management to ensure that no child’s needs go unseen or unheard.
鈥淪ocial workers are doers are often the first on the scene and the last to leave,鈥 said Tori Sisk, coordinator of 91制片厂 student outreach services. 鈥91制片厂 social workers serve throughout the district by using their unique skill set to assess a need, identify resources and refer accordingly to fill gaps for under-resourced families.鈥
The SOS department believes that every student, regardless of circumstances, has the opportunity to reach their greatest potential. And they operate on the principle that relationships are key. Whether it鈥檚 building relationships with the students, parents, teachers, staff or administrators, they all work together to play a crucial role in the development and success of each student.
鈥淭he rapport we build and trust we build with all stakeholders allows for everyone to feel seen and heard,鈥 said Sara Kestenbaun, a social worker within SOS. 鈥淗aving that trust opens the door for more honest input and referrals from staff. Social workers are relationship-builders, and relationships are what we all need to not only succeed, but to survive.鈥
One of the most gratifying parts of being a social worker is seeing the students’ progress and accomplish their goals. Providing students with a safe space on campus that allows them to express themselves emotionally is what it鈥檚 all about.
Dr. Keijuanna Jackson, a district therapist, has seen the SOS department鈥檚 impact, and she鈥檚 proud to be on the front lines when it comes to serving students.
鈥淎 little extra support can go a long way,鈥 said Jackson. 鈥淚t鈥檚 incredible what positive impact we鈥檙e able to make in the lives of students, their families and our campuses from the work we do. It鈥檚 intentional, relational and resourceful.鈥
Contact Student Outreach Services
If you or a family member need assistance with resources, basic needs or case management, please visit our student outreach services page here for additional information.