The 2026 Social Work Month theme, “Social Work: Uplift. Defend. Transform.”, honors the core mission of the social work profession—to enhance human well-being, meet the basic human needs of all people, and place special emphasis on empowering those who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty. Social Workers are uniquely trained through years of education and professional preparation to address individual, family, community, and systemic challenges with compassion, skill, and ethical integrity.

During School Social Work Week, March 1–7, 2026, the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) places a special focus on honoring the essential role of School Social Workers. In the face of complex challenges, heightened student needs, and evolving school environments, School Social Workers continue to demonstrate resilience, leadership, and advocacy.

Through their work, School Social Workers uplift school communities by centering student well-being, fostering a sense of belonging, and strengthening the connection between academic success and social-emotional health. Using culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and evidence-based practices, they support students and families in overcoming barriers to learning while promoting resilience, engagement, and hope.

School Social Workers defend equitable access to support and services by advocating for students and families, collaborating with educators and community partners, and upholding ethical practice. They transform school communities through prevention-focused, healing-centered, and collaborative approaches that strengthen school mental health systems and create safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environments for all students.

The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) proudly supports and celebrates School Social Workers across Los Angeles County through undergraduate and graduate

workforce development, as well as practicum instruction and supervision. LACOE also honors the social workers and social work interns serving within the Community Schools Initiative and across LACOE programs who deliver integrated, student-centered mental health services at LACOE schools and Community Schools partner district sites. Through high-quality professional learning opportunities, the Mental Health and School Counseling Unit provides culturally responsive, ethically grounded training and consultation to more than 80 local educational agencies and 350 charter schools. LACOE’s commitment to strengthening school-based mental health services and advancing equitable, student-centered systems of support is further reflected in its annual School Social Worker of the Year Award.

Throughout the month of March, LACOE encourages schools, districts, community partners, and stakeholders across Los Angeles County to join in recognizing and celebrating the vital contributions of social workers in supporting students, families, and communities.