School Social Work Association of Nebraska

06/17/2026

Check out one of our SSWAN members being highlighted in the Midwest Council’s Summer Recharge series! ☀️ We hope everyone is finding ways to recharge this summer! ⛰️🏝️🌸💪🏻

☀️ Today’s spotlight features Andrea from Nebraska!

Andrea is the Treasurer for the Midwest School Social Work Council, where she helps support and strengthen the work of school social workers across the Midwest.

Outside of her leadership role, Andrea enjoys soaking up life’s everyday moments. She loves napping when she gets the chance, cheering on her kids at baseball games and track meets, spending time swimming with friends, and relaxing at her in-laws’ lake house.

Andrea encourages you to remember that strong communities are built through care for one another, and that’s an important part of self-care, too.

What’s one way you practice community care? ⬇️

06/06/2026

We’re THRILLED that Nebraska Summer EBT (SEBT) is back for 2026! The first round of benefits went out yesterday. Last year, nearly 200,000 Nebraska kids received benefits 🍎

Nebraska SEBT provides $120 in grocery benefits to children (like yours!) over the summer, when kids aren't getting the meals they usually eat at school.

Some eligible kids will get benefits on a new SEBT card automatically but some may need to apply.

Check your eligibility and apply here: 🔗 neappl.es/checksebt

06/05/2026

Congratulations to Bancroft Elementary social worker Leah Baker! The School Social Work Association of Nebraska named Baker the Nebraska School Social Worker of the Year. She was recognized for her outstanding contributions to school social work for our district and community.

06/03/2026

☀️ SSWAN held our annual summer planning meeting today☀️

Thank you to these SSWAN members who helped prepare for the 2026-2027 school year ahead!

06/02/2026

Happy Pride Month from the School Social Work Association of America! 🌈

School social workers play a critical role in affirming and advocating for LGBTQIA+ youth in our schools. Whether it’s creating inclusive environments, addressing bias, or supporting mental health; your presence matters deeply.

This month, we honor the resilience, brilliance, and joy of LGBTQIA+ students, families, and colleagues. Let’s recommit to showing up as advocates and allies, because every student deserves to feel safe, seen, and supported. 💜

05/21/2026

🌟 Congratulations to our School Social Worker of the Year… Leah Baker!! 🌟

Your commitment, encouragement, and influence within your school community make a meaningful impact each day. SSWAN is incredibly proud of your work and this well-earned recognition! 🎉

05/21/2026

☀️ To all of our SSWAN members - thank you for the difference you’ve made this school year through your dedication, advocacy, and support for students and families across our state. 💙
Wishing you a strong finish to the school year and a summer filled with rest, joy, and time to recharge! ☀️

05/15/2026

‼️ JOB OPPORTUNITY ‼️

Lincoln Public Schools is hiring a school social worker for the 2026-2027 school year. Check out the link for more information!

Search or browse thousands of teaching jobs and other school jobs from dozens of education job sites in one easy search. Sign up for daily or weekly job alert emails and apply online!

05/14/2026

🩷 SSWAN’s May member Spotlight is Samantha Naser in Millard Public Schools 🩷

How do you practice self-care or boundaries to sustain yourself in this role?
Self-care and boundaries are super important to me! I used to have a habit of working late almost daily, reading my email or checking and rechecking my work in my off-time. It created so much strain on me that I developed two different stress-related chronic health conditions before the age of 25. I always remind myself that if I don't choose to take time for my wellness, I will be forced to take time for my illness. I'm lucky enough to have amazing friends and colleagues who support me and help put things into perspective, and this tends to be the most helpful thing for me. Outside of work, I have a “focus” on my phone that disables notifications from my work email outside of work hours so I'm less tempted to check it. I also make it a point to schedule in time for hobbies and creativity, as well as time to just "do nothing." I protect this time like it's vital to my health - because it is!

04/13/2026

🤩 SSWAN’s April Social Worker Spotlight is Ursula Vernon-Hansen 🤩

What’s a challenge in school social work that you’re especially passionate about
addressing?
I am especially passionate about addressing su***de prevention and mental health intervention
within the school system. As a Crisis Team Lead, I have seen firsthand the devastating impact that the death of a student or staff member by su***de has on students, staff, and families. I am deeply committed to moving beyond reactive crisis response and focusing on proactive prevention. This includes early identification, reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, and ensuring every student has a trusted adult they can turn to. Our goal is to build a school culture where mental health is prioritized and systems are in place to support our most vulnerable students before a crisis occurs. It has been a privilege to work with the crisis team and support students during what may be the most difficult times in their lives.

✨ Congratulations on your retirement! Thank you for your dedication to students and families, and wishing you all the best in your next chapter!