School social workers in Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) are focused on removing barriers to student learning by addressing social, emotional, and behavioral challenges. At Burke School, an alternative learning center, Megan Jackson serves as a school social worker and was recognized as a finalist for Outstanding Professional Employee of the Year at last year’s Honors Ceremony.
Principal Thomas Sweet highlighted Jackson’s work: “Ms. Jackson’s impact extends far beyond the traditional role of a social worker. She expertly navigates the complex needs of students who have experienced significant trauma, providing crucial support and guidance both individually and within group settings. Her expertise in social-emotional learning and crisis intervention is invaluable to our school community.”
A colleague noted that Jackson “changes lives” by helping students move to less restrictive learning environments and develop skills needed to become active citizens. Her involvement extends beyond student support; she participates in school improvement efforts, mentors colleagues, and connects families with resources. As Principal Sweet added, “Her knowledge of community resources and her ability to connect families with necessary support services are truly remarkable.”
Jackson’s emphasis on family engagement has also been recognized by parents. One parent wrote about how Jackson became a trusted confidante for their child during mental health treatment: “Ms. Jackson quickly developed rapport and became a trusted confidante to the extent that she was on [my child’s] preferred call list when [they] entered residential mental health treatment. Ms. Jackson was unfailingly warm, optimistic, and supportive, while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.” The parent credited Jackson’s help for their child’s successful transition back into 8th grade from a smaller clinical setting.
Colleagues also note the positive effect Jackson has had on Burke School through her thoughtful approach and relationship-building skills. Principal Sweet stated: “Her positive attitude and commitment to improving the lives of our learners are truly inspiring. I wholeheartedly believe that Ms. Jackson exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism and dedication within Fairfax County Public Schools.”
Throughout FCPS, school social workers coordinate programs such as Sibshop classes for siblings of students with disabilities and Parent Project classes that provide strategies for managing challenging behaviors in children. They also offer training for staff on trauma-informed classroom practices.
All FCPS school social workers hold a Master of Social Work degree and are licensed by the Virginia Department of Education. Their responsibilities include individual and group counseling, participating in meetings related to academic or behavioral needs (including special education eligibility), conducting crisis interventions such as suicide risk assessments, supporting students who cannot attend school due to illness or disciplinary action through Out-of-School Support services, serving as liaisons between home, school, and community agencies—including those supporting homeless or military-connected youth—and leading initiatives related to mental wellness.
For more information about FCPS school social workers or finding out which staff member is assigned to your school, additional resources are available.
