Political Pressures

We asked administrators if they would feel comfortable asking a social worker in their school to lobby in the political arena.

Featured Dilemma:

Lobbying? Could administrators feel threatenend by social workers advocating change?

David and Alan both welcome energy and enthusiasm.     Alan believes that this "new blood" combined with seasoned staff creates a great atmosphere for change and allows for school growth. He encourages new school social workers not to hide their enthusiasm, but rather to utilize supervision and allow school administrators to help direct the energy.     As seasoned staff know the history of the school and how to approach key people, their input can make significant difference in the success or failure of attempted change.

Would you feel comfortable asking a social worker from your school to lobby in a political arena?

Mike asserted that he would feel comfortable asking a social worker to lobby for kids. One might, however,"have to start at a grass roots level with the teaching staff."     In some cases, a social worker would "lobby for a child" just by helping a staff member understand the workings of a home and how one might help that child to be successful in school despite the home. Mike believes that social workers should be encouraged by their administrators to be an advocate for kids.

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