School Social Worker

What do social workers do?

One of the functions of the School Social Worker is to help the teacher, student, and family identify and address issues that prevent the student from being successful in the school setting.

With parent/guardian permission, the School Social Worker can also provide individual and group support for students who are having difficulty coping with many of life’s stresses.

Another function of the School Social Worker is to help parents or staff members find information about available community resources and referrals to appropriate agencies.

​The School Social Worker is an important part of the team at your child’s school. She/he provides ongoing support to students and is available for assistance when there is a crisis.

Which students might benefit from school social work services?

​The School Social Worker assists students who have social, emotional, and/or physical challenges which may interfere with their success in school. Some examples include:

• Self-esteem issues
• School phobia/anxiety/refusal
• Divorce or separation
• New baby/sibling
• Illness - self or family member
• Death in the family (including pets)
• Friendship difficulties
• New student adjustment
• Anger/impulsiveness
• Violence or abuse
• Harassment or bullying
• Peer mediation
• Substance abuse
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Suicidal verbalization
• Irregular attendance 

How do students arrange to meet with the School Social Worker?

​Students can be referred to the School Social Worker by:

• Themselves
• Parent(s)/guardian(s)/other family members
• Teacher, principal, or other staff member
• Other students
• Community agencies Parents can call the school to arrange appointments to meet with the School Social Worker to discuss issues or concerns related to their student(s). ​

Resources

Homeless services:
Medical assistance and MinnesotaCare application
Substance abuse guide:
​https://www.drugrehab.com/guides/parents/

COVID-19 Mental Health Support

Contact info

Kris Fjelstul, LSW                                                                         Amy Miller
School Social Worker Seat-Based Learning                         School Social Worker On-Line Learning
Crosslake Community Schools                                                Crosslake Community Schools
kfjelstul@crosslakekids.org                                         amymiller@crosslakekids.org
218-692-9217                                                                                  218-203-0607 
                                                                                                          612-251-1730 (call or text)