Informed by a social justice approach, this user-friendly text for social work students provides a comprehensive introduction to contemporary school social work practice structured around the 2022 CSWE EPAS Competencies. With a focus on skills development, this innovative text is competency-based and encompasses professionalism, cross-disciplinary collaboration, research applications, theoretical foundations, policies, engagement, assessment, intervention, and evaluation.

Following a brief historical overview and introduction to the discipline, the book delves into school social work practice and delivers timely content regarding professional identity, supervision, anti-racism, diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice. Practice knowledge is examined through social work theory, evidence-informed practice, use of data, and policies regarding school, children, and families. The text addresses the full range of client engagement, service provision, the multi-tiered system of supports, trauma-based practices, social emotional learning, termination, and transition-planning. An instructor's manual, sample syllabus, and PowerPoints accompany each chapter. Purchase includes digital access for use on most mobile devices or computers.

Key Features:

• Organizes content by the CSWE professional competencies
• Provides case scenarios and practitioner spotlights in each chapter to illuminate the varied roles and responsibilities of school social workers
• Includes skill-development activities, additional resources, and reflection boxes to foster understanding and creative thinking
• Delivers a comprehensive focus covering policy, practice, and theory
• Addresses the full range of client engagement and service provision
• Incorporates contemporary issues relevant to school practice (MTSS, SEL, IDEA, ESSA)
• Views the discipline through a decolonial lens and acknowledges structural racism in the school system