School Social Worker

Danbury Public Schools is a diverse community located in the western part of Connecticut, serving more than 12,500 students across the City of Danbury. We are committed to cultivating equity and excellence for all students, closing opportunity gaps, and preparing students for post-secondary success. The mission of Danbury Public Schools, in partnership with families and the community, is to provide transformational learning experiences designed to nurture thoughtful and prepared graduates. We have set ambitious and rigorous goals to ensure students graduate prepared to transform the world.

Our district includes 13 elementary schools (including an interdistrict magnet school for International Studies), three middle schools (including a STEM and World Studies magnet), and the Danbury Career Academies, which provide innovative pathways supported by faculty with both academic and real-world experience. DPS recruits and supports educators with passion who are aligned with our vision to advance all learners to their highest potential.

Position Summary

The School Social Worker’s responsibility is to assess effectively the underlying causes of a student’s behavior that are significantly interfering with their educational progress. The social worker collaborates as a member of the Planning and Placement Team (PPT) or Student Response to Intervention (SRBI) team to develop a plan of action in conjunction with the parent(s) and school staff. The goal is to help the student address and change behaviors to increase participation and success in their educational program.

Responsibilities Include

• Provide individual and group counseling to address social, emotional, and behavioral needs
• Conduct assessments and gather background information to understand the root causes of behavioral and academic concerns
• Participate in PPT and SRBI meetings and assist in developing and monitoring intervention plans
• Conduct home visits and collaborate with families to support student development and well-being
• Serve as a liaison between school, home, and community agencies
• Provide crisis intervention and support for students and families
• Support the development and implementation of Functional Behavioral Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans
• Offer consultation and training to school staff related to mental health, trauma, and student behavior
• Prepare social development reports for SRBI and PPT use, including family background data, cultural information, parent impressions, diagnosis, and/or recommendations for future interventions
• Stay current with community and state agency services, make referrals as appropriate, and follow up on recommendations
• Make home visits to gather information and conduct family counseling sessions integral to the student’s success in the learning environment
  
  

Job Requirements – Minimum Qualifications

Skills, Knowledge, And Abilities

• Strong understanding of mental health, trauma, and child development
• Effective assessment, counseling, and crisis intervention skills
• Ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, families, and community providers
• Excellent communication and advocacy skills
• Familiarity with special education regulations and support services
• Culturally responsive and equity-focused practices
• Strong organizational skills and discretion with confidential information
  
  

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Experience in school-based or child-centered mental health settings
• Bilingual or multilingual preferred
• Familiarity with community-based agencies and family supports
  
  

Education/Certification Requirements:

• Master’s degree in Social Work from an accredited institution
• Must hold or be eligible for Connecticut State Department of Education School Social Worker certification (071)
  
  

Salary:

Salary and benefits are in accordance with the current agreement between the Danbury Board of Education and the NEA-Danbury.

Application Instructions

Apply online at: www.danbury.k12.ct.us

Please include a resume, cover letter, certification, transcripts, and three (3) current letters of recommendation.