School Social Workers
DOUGLAS COUNTY SCHOOL SYSTEM
Student Services Department
Student Services Department
School Social Workers (SSW) are concerned about the educational welfare of children. They assist students within the educational environment by mediating with school personnel to provide services that promote students’ academic achievement.
How does a school social worker assist students, families and school personnel?
The Douglas County School System is dedicated to the goal of helping every student experience success in school. In keeping with this goal, the SSW provides non-instructional services to students and families. Students are the primary focus of the educational process and are viewed by the SSW in relation to the family, school, and community. School Social Workers are trained to identify, assess, and resolve personal and/or family conflicts which may interfere with school attendance, social adjustment or academic achievement.
Guiding Principals
Provide culturally responsive evidence-based education, behavior and mental health support.
Promote school climate and culture conductive to student learning and teaching excellence.
Maximize access to school-based and community-based resources.
Our team works to address barriers to learning!
Social Worker Team:
Ricki Lynn Davis, LMSW
Burnett Elementary* Chestnut Log Middle, Mt. Carmel Elementary
770-651-3542/ricki.davis@dcssga.org
Temekia Cheely
Douglas County High*, Bright Star Elementary, Mirror Lake Elementary
770-651-3833/temekia.cheely@dcssga.org
Amy Gardner, LMSW
Fairplay Middle*, South Douglas Elementary, Dorsett Shoals Elementary
770-651-5312/amy.gardner@dcssga.org
Nichelle Lemons, LCSW
Alexander High*, Yeager Middle, College and Career Institute
770-651-6050/nichelle.lemons@dcssga.or
Kitina McCants, LCSW
Stewart Middle*, North Douglas Elementary, Success Center
770-651-5421/kitina.mccants@dcssga.org
Brittany Miles, LMSW
Mason Creek Middle*, Mason Creek Elementary, Winston Elementary
770-651-2627/brittany.miles@dcssga.org
Faith Payne, LMSW
Bill Arp Elementary*, Chapel Hill Elementary, Chestnut Log Middle, Arbor Station Elementary
770-651-3542/faith.payne@dcssga.org
Grachelle Sherburne, LCSW
New Manchester High*, New Manchester Elementary
770-651-4239/grachelle.sherburne@dcssga.org
Shuntay Strachan, Ed.D, LCSW
Eastside Elementary*, Factory Shoals Elementary, Factory Shoals Middle
770-651-6618/shuntay.strachan@dcssga.org
Delmar Terry, LCSW
Lithia Springs High*, Lithia Springs Elementary, Sweetwater Elementary
770-651-6776/delmar.terry@dcssga.org
Amber Walker, LCSW
Beulah Elementary*, Annette Winn Elementary, Turner Middle
770-651-3364/amber.walker@dcssga.org
Fhara Walker, MSW
Lead School Social Worker
Chapel Hill High*, Chapel Hill Middle, Holly Springs Elementary
770-651-6299/fhara.walker@dcssga.org
*School= Base School
Why does a school need a school social worker?
School social workers provide resources to students and families by assessing needs and identifying supportive services within the school system and community. School social workers serve as a bridge between home, school and the community. School social workers utilize preventative measures such as home visits, facilitation of groups, coordination of community services and collaboration with school staff. Their goal is to support students, families and provide tools and resources to improve student achievement.
How does a school social worker differ from a department of family and children's services social worker (DFCS)?
School Social Workers are employees of the Douglas County School System. All school social workers must hold a T5 certification (Basic Teacher Level) through the Professional Standards Commission and must have a Master's degree in Social Work. School Social Workers do communicate with DFCS social workers or case mangers. This might occur if the student is in foster care or when a report of neglect or abuse has been made by the school.
How is a school social worker involved in the truancy process?
School social workers are an important part of helping reducing school dropouts and decreasing truancy. Social Workers work collaboratively with local schools to monitor student attendance and identify students who may be in need of support. The goal is for our social workers to meet with students and families to identify what is causing the lack of attendance and help with establishing support goals related to attendance. The support services may include case management or making referrals outside the school system. At times, school Social Workers are responsible for submitting necessary documentation requested by the Juvenile Court Truancy Panel.