While the beginning of the new school year can be a time of excitement, hope, and anticipation, it can also conjure up apprehension, uncertainty, and anxiety. Schools are facing big challenges, from lack of funding and outdated policies to safety issues to rising student mental health issues. School-Based Clinical Social Workers (CSWs), or School Social Workers (SSWs), are increasingly being called upon to help pick up the slack. SSWs not only case manage, assess risks and needs, and make referrals to other agencies and providers; they also to provide interventions, such as ongoing therapy. They are tasked with assessing, diagnosing, and treating students with mental and emotional health conditions, serious behavior issues, homelessness, severe trauma, family crises, and more. SSWs are expected to help schools to address: The continuing effects of the pandemic, which hit many students hard The need for interventions and learning recovery Significant attendance issues Behavior problems, including disrespect, defiance, refusal, fighting, bullying, cyberbullying, and violence Ongoing and increasing student mental and emotional health challenges Each year, schools are relying more and more upon SSWs as vital extensions of their staff. SSWs’ caseloads and responsibilities continue to grow, and there’s often a waiting list of students requiring their services. What Can School-Based CSWs, SSWs and CMs Do To Prepare for the New School Year? For SSWs returning to campuses this school year, preparation is key. Of course, all schools and districts are different and have varied needs, but those needs appear to be immense and complex. It’s important to gain some clarity on what those needs are and what exactly your role will be, to have a good idea of what to expect, and have a solid plan. Here are some ideas and considerations for preparing for a successful school year. Logistics Know your school (or schools), the environment, culture, climate, procedures, schedules, and needs. Familiarize yourself with the campus, safety protocols, and staff. Understand who does what, and who your direct contact/s at the school will be. Figure out how you can best work together. Also, be sure that you have what you need, a quiet space that’s big enough and comfortable, and the necessary equipment, technology, tools, and supplies. If possible, schedule a brief meeting with key team members before or soon after school starts. You may also want to take a tour, take possession of keys (to the front gate, your office, the restroom, etc.), familiarize yourself with emergency plans, school maps and bell schedules (on regular, minimum, exam days, etc.), disciplinary rules, and so forth. Know how you will call for students to come to meet with you, how long sessions will be, and what if any passes or forms you will need.