School social workers in Oklahoma are helping families access resources to prevent crises, leading to better attendance and academic outcomes. These specialists, employed by schools and working with the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, aim to connect families with resources before challenges escalate into crises.

Supporting Families

April Price, one of seven school social workers at Western Heights Public Schools, is making a difference in the lives of students and their families. Her office is stocked with food, school supplies, and other essentials to support families in need. The goal is to remove barriers that prevent students from focusing on learning.

Western Heights Public Schools leaders say the program, introduced three years ago, has led to improved attendance and academic performance. The school also offers a facility where families can grab groceries and do their laundry, equipped with a washer and dryer.

The Oklahoma Department of Human Services emphasizes that these specialists are not there to police families but to build relationships, connect them with resources, and address problems early. Their goal is prevention, and schools with these specialists have seen fewer DHS referrals, as many challenges are resolved before they escalate.

Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.