School Social Work Services (IDEA 2004)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 2004 outlines required services to help students with disabilities benefit from special education. School social work services and parent counseling and training are among the supports provided to meet these requirements.

Intermediate Unit 1 Social Work Services

Intermediate Unit 1 (IU1) social workers support students at all grade levels across school districts, IU1 campus schools, and Comprehensive Therapeutic Emotional Support classrooms through our THRIVE Program. District needs for social work services are reviewed and met annually.

IU1 has grown significantly in its commitment to student mental health—expanding from six social workers in 1997–1998 to 45 master’s-level social workers currently serving 25 school districts. IU1 social workers are licensed, and hold a School Certification for Social Workers.
Services provided as part of a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) are eligible for ACCESS billing.

Social Work Services Include:

Developing social and developmental histories in preparation for psychiatric evaluations
Individual and group therapeutic support for students and families
Supporting families with home, school, and community concerns
Connecting students and families to school and community resources
Participation on the IU1 Crisis Team
Conducting Functional Behavioral Assessments (FBAs) and supporting positive behavior plans
Assisting with early identification and early intervention services
Supporting coping, social, and decision-making skill development