Social Workers: The Heart of Our Schools
During School Social Workers Week, Camden's Charter School Network recognizes the heart of the school, our social workers. They listen, support, and, most importantly, create a safe space where students can open up and feel heard.
At our schools, there are 17 dedicated social workers, each playing a unique role in helping students navigate challenges both inside and outside the classroom. Whether it’s providing guidance on personal struggles, helping students cope with stress, or connecting families to resources, these social workers are always ready to step in and support the school community.
Mrs. Caba and Mrs. Hernandez, social workers at Katz Dalsey Academy, had several students in the Social & Emotional Learning room. The students played a word game that helped them open up about their feelings and learn to communicate in different scenarios. They smiled as they shared and participated, clearly feeling comfortable expressing themselves. It gave them the opportunity to be open and honest while also learning healthy ways to handle situations without conflict.
“Each day is very different," Mrs. Hernandez said. "There are new challenges that arise every day. We do our best to help all our students here and all our families, so each day we can have different scenarios with our students and families.”
While these scenarios are helpful as the school year progresses, it’s the growth students experience through the support of social workers that truly makes a lasting impact. Students have grown more confident and more willing to open up. This growth can also be seen during the awareness tables at Camden Academy, where students gathered information and engaged with important resources. Many were intrigued, and there’s no telling how many truly needed the information being provided.
Social workers may not always be in the spotlight, but their impact speaks for itself. Every conversation, every activity, and every moment of support helps shape a student’s journey. With 17 dedicated social workers across our campuses, students are reminded daily that they are supported and valued. Their presence strengthens our schools, proving that education is not just about academics, but about building confident, resilient young people who are prepared for whatever comes next.