PROFESSIONAL LEARNING
MSSWA is committed to providing high-quality, targeted professional learning that supports school social workers at every stage of their careers. Our offerings are designed to strengthen practice, respond to emerging student needs, and promote professional growth through relevant, timely, and school-focused learning opportunities. Through conferences, workshops, and collaborative learning experiences, MSSWA connects school social workers with the knowledge, skills, and community needed to support students and families across Minnesota.
Winter Conference
Winter Conference provides a mid-year boost with practical strategies and best practices for supporting students and schools.
When: TBD 2027
Where: Virtual via Zoom
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Day on the Hill
Join us to advocate for students and the profession at the Minnesota State Capitol - amplifying the collective voice of SSW.
When: March 2026
Where: The Minnesota State Capitol
Want to speak at an Educate & Elevate session?
Do you have a topic that is practical, engaging, and relevant to school social work practice that you could teach on?
The PD Committee is looking for more speakers for these lunch time sessions and welcomes proposals year-round.
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Interested in being a Conference Sponsor or Vendor?
Are you interested in being a sponsor or vendor at our annual Fall Conference? Click the link below for more information or to register.
MH-SpEd for School Social Workers
Beginning October 15, 2024, Minnesota schools and districts can access Medical Assistance (MA) for mental health services provided in schools as part of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) for students enrolled in MA. This process helps schools expand access to critical mental health supports by offsetting costs for services delivered to MA-eligible students. By implementing MH-SpEd, districts can strengthen school-based mental health services, reduce barriers to care, and better support student well-being and academic success.
Throughout 2026, MSSWA will be adding Practice Guides and Training Videos to help support the implementation of MH-SpEd. Please check back in the future for those resources.
Accommodations for Participants with Disabilities
We are committed to ensuring that all participants have equal access to our professional development opportunities. If you require accommodations due to a disability, please contact us at pdchairs@msswa.org at least 14 days in advance so that we can make arrangements to meet your needs. We strive to provide an inclusive learning environment that supports the full participation of every attendee.