Advance equity and inclusion with a text grounded in ADEI frameworks and real-world case applications.
This textbook provides practical, skills-based preparation for school social work, aligning with the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) competencies and grounded in equity-driven practice. Covering history, policy, and day-to-day operations, it equips students and new professionals with essential tools for success. With updated coverage of restorative justice, licensure, and technology, it prepares readers to thrive in today’s diverse school environments. Know, use, and test your understanding of course content with CourseConnect—an interactive learning platform included with your print purchase.
What’s New:
Expanded coverage of anti-oppressive and equity-driven practice
Updated content on restorative justice, critical theories, and father engagement
Guidance on licensure, certification, and the evolving role of school social workers
Integration of updated technology in school social work practice
Key Features:
Covers Multi-Tiered System of Supports, Social and Emotional Learning/transformative social emotional learning (tSEL), trauma-informed schools, and critical theory applications
Prepares students with practical skills, cultural competence, and readiness for school social work roles
Includes case scenarios, practitioner spotlights, and reflection questions
Written by respected scholars and practitioners advancing and engaging Anti-Racism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ADEI) in school social work
Instructor Resources include Instructor’s Manual, Instructor Chapter PowerPoints, Instructor Test Bank, Sample Syllabus, EPAS Mapping, and Transition Guide from first to second edition
Maximize Your Learning With CourseConnect—Included With Your Print Purchase! Enhance your textbook experience with CourseConnect, an interactive learning platform designed to help you engage more deeply, study smarter, and achieve success in your course.
Master Complex Concepts—Interactive learning activities simplify concepts and improve comprehension and retention.
Track Your Progress—Real-time analytics and self-assessments help you identify strengths and focus on areas for improvement.
Study Anytime, Anywhere—Enjoy seamless access to your eBook and study tools whenever and wherever you need them.
Help Whenever You Need It—Course Coach provides answers, summaries, and practice questions to keep you moving forward and build confidence.
Giesela Grumbach, PhD, LCSW, PEL (IL), is a Full Professor and Chair of the Social Work Department in the College of Health & Human Services at Governors State University. Her relational and equity-focused leadership guides the overall program and the school social work specialization. Prior to her academic career, she served as a school social worker in the Chicago Public Schools for 10 years.
JoDee Keller, PhD, LICSW (WA), is Professor Emerita of Social Work at Pacific Lutheran University, where she taught for 34 years and served in a variety of roles, including department chair, program director, and practicum coordinator. She brings direct school experience, as she has practiced as a school social worker in multiple districts in both Illinois and Washington State and has continued her school involvement by consulting and conducting research in several school districts in Washington State.
Contributors
Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgments
Instructor Resources
SECTION I. INTRODUCTION TO SCHOOL SOCIAL WORK
Chapter 1. The Context of School Social Work: Historical Background and Current Trends in Schools
Chapter 2. Applied School Social Work: Getting Started in the School Setting
Chapter 3. Understanding the Context of School Social Work
SECTION II. PRACTICE ISSUES: PROFESSIONALISM AND SOCIAL JUSTICE RESPONSES TO DIVERSITY AND EQUITY
Chapter 4. Professional and Ethical Practice in the School Setting
Chapter 5. Engage Antiracism, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: Applications to School Settings
Chapter 6. Advancing Human Rights: An Agenda for Social, Racial, Economic, Environmental, and Educational Justice
SECTION III. ENGAGING AND ASSESSING CLIENTS IN THE SCHOOL SETTING
Chapter 7. Theoretical Perspectives Applied to Social Work Practice in Schools
Chapter 8. Engagement With Client Systems in the School Setting
Chapter 9. Assessment in the School Setting: The Role of Social Work
SECTION IV. SCHOOL-BASED INTERVENTIONS
Chapter 10. Multi-Tiered System of Supports
Chapter 11. Tier 1 Interventions: Universal Interventions for School Social Work
Chapter 12. Tier 2 Interventions: Small-Group and Other Targeted Interventions
Chapter 13. Tier 3 Interventions: Intensive, Individualized Services in the School Setting
SECTION V. EVALUATING PRACTICE, ENGAGING IN RESEARCH, AND UNDERSTANDING POLICY
Chapter 14. Evaluating Practice in the School Setting
Chapter 15. Practice-Informed Research and Research-Informed Practice: How School Social Workers Engage With Research
Chapter 16. Engage in Policy Practice in the School Setting
SECTION VI. CONCLUSION AND LOOKING FORWARD
Chapter 17. Looking Forward: Emerging Issues for School Social Workers
