MSSWA has a new website!
On this website, you'll find all the information about what MSSWA is and does, who to contact if you have questions, and what events MSSWA has coming up soon.
If you are looking for the resources that MSSWA provides for its members, please use the "Member Login" button above to be directed to the "Members Only" portal. Once you login, the look is still the same (the old Wild Apricot site) but will be getting a facelift soon.
If you're not a member of MSSWA but would like to become one, the "Member Login" button above will also have a place you can join.
Attend in-person and virtual workshops, earn CEUs, and grow your skills through quality training tailored to school-based practice.
MSSWA represents school social workers at the state level, promoting mental health services, safe learning environments, and equity in education.
MSSWA provides resources, advocacy, and professional development to strengthen school social work practice across Minnesota.
Opportunities are available in committees, events, mentoring, and advocacy initiatives. There’s a place for everyone to get involved.
MSSWA reviews nominations and selects individuals to be honored for outstanding contributions to school social work and student well-being across Minnesota.
📣 Fall Conference November 16th and 17th 📣
2026 MN School Social Worker of the Year
Christy McCoy
The Selection Committee and Executive Board of the Minnesota School Social Workers Association wish to announce that Christy McCoy has been selected as our 2026 Minnesota School Social Worker of the Year.
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The letter of nomination and supportive letters speak to many skills we value as school social workers and indicate why Christy is such a valuable leader of your staff. She is a credit to our profession as well as a valued member of your school community.
We would like to recognize Christy at the Minnesota School Social Workers Association state conference on November 16th, 2026 at the McNamara Alumni Center in Minneapolis during a luncheon.
Mini Grant Winners
Madeline Kranzler
Pipestone Schools
$500 to improve access to professional supervision
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Rebecca Wolf
Buffalo Hanover Montrose Schools
$500 for family grief kits
MEMBER HIGHLIGHT
Rachel Perez
School Social Worker at Woodcrest Spanish Immersion and Centerview Elementary School
Spring Lake Park School District 116
What is one thing you love about working with students?
Being in two elementary schools, I can hardly go a day—let alone a few moments—without smiling faces and funny moments from the kids. I’m also often inspired by the conversations and connections these young students bring forward. We never know what kids may be facing in their lives, and I feel privileged to be someone they can talk to when the time feels right for them. I enjoy being able to provide a space where they can bring their worries forward and talk through ways to navigate them. It can feel overwhelming at times because of the number of situations that come up, but I’m always grateful to have this role within the school system.
What is one moment in your career that reminded you why this work matters?
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During these last couple of months, as the injustice of ICE presence in our communities has felt especially strong and the inequity in access to education has become so apparent, it has served as a bold reminder of how important it is to be able to do the work I do with students and families in my role as a school social worker.
If you had a walk-up song when you arrived at school each morning, what would it be?
I don’t know if it's a real song, but Dory’s song from Finding Nemo “Just keep swimming, just keep swimming, just keep swimming, swimming, swimming, swimming, what do we do we swim!” It’s kind of like a coping skill!
Favorite self-care activity after a long day at school?
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I have a bit of a love-hate relationship with the gym, but I always feel better if I go. Otherwise, spending time with my family in the evenings is really important to me—when I’m able to be present for my kids, it’s a rewarding experience as a working mom. Other times, it’s as simple as a good bowl of cereal, a relaxing shower or bath, or a lighthearted series or movie to help me unwind and keep me going.
Favorite snack hidden in your desk drawer?
Some kind of fruity candy or a Bloom Energy Drink (my new favorite drink )
Lightning Round
Coffee, tea, or something else? Iced Coffee or Bloom Energy Drink
Morning person or night owl? Neither. I love sleeping but Saturday mornings when everyone else is sleeping in, if I had to choose!
Favorite weekend activity? Family Gym Time followed by Eating Out
Dogs or cats? Don’t make me pick - I love them both - but I do have 3 cats!
What gives you hope in schools right now?
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The community of people in and around our school systems who continue to show up with care and commitment to our kids and their futures is always astounding to me. It can feel hard, frustrating, and overwhelming at times—especially when there aren’t always immediate solutions or when the complications surrounding a child are significant. But when I focus on the passion that exists within this community for the kids we serve, it gives me hope.