School Social Work: Adapting the Ways of Connecting during COVID-19

Abstract

M arch 16, 2020, marked the beginning of an uncharted journey for school districts in New Jersey as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. As schools closed, albeit temporarily, it quickly became apparent that this journey would not be linear. Instead, it has been one of constant change, week-to-week and monthto-month. As the pandemic spread, so did the need for increased mental health and academic support for students and families in districts across the state. In this column, two school social workers share their experiences in adapting their practice skills to support the mental health and academic needs of students and families during this unprecedented health crisis.