The school social worker must appreciate the concerns typical for the school environment. A frequent topic concerning changes is student dress code. Mike volunteered his conviction that dress codes should be reviewed on an annual basis due to changing styles.
Joan was concerned for young children in grades four and lower under pressure of academic grade requirements for eligibility to play sports.
Alan emphasized the need to address attendance policy, teacher evaluation procedures and processes, and student discipline--in particular classroom management.
In his 25th year as an administrator, Mike addressed system change and suggested the social worker first get to know a new staff.
"You find the best time to suggest change. Teachers needed time to get to know me and also to know when I am receptive to suggestions or change."
Whether beginning afresh or changing schools, a rule of thumb is to spend the first year getting the lay of the land and then begin to try changes.
