School Social Work

Working in Ohio Public Schools

In 2022 the Ohio regulations changed, making it easier for social workers to get hired by school districts. It used to require an Ohio Department of Education approved School Social Work Certificate, but the Department reports that is no longer the case. This happened because of the increased mental health problems and issues across many students in Ohio and the need for increased access and services.

According to the Ohio Department of Education Pupil Services Licensure and Registration webpage here: https://sboe.ohio.gov/educator-licensure/apply-for-a-new-license/pupil-services-licensure-and-registration and under the “Pupil Services Registration 5-year” section, you find “Social Worker” listed as an area that can be approved to work in schools even if you “have not completed a school licensure program.”

Today, to qualify for a social work position in an Ohio school district you need the following, according to ODE:

PROFESSIONAL BOARD LICENSE

• Candidates must hold a valid license issued by the respective Ohio professional board for the requested area.

BACKGROUND CHECKS

• Candidates must submit current background checks to the State Board of Education.

This means you need to complete your MSW (have transcripts available when uploading your registration), proof of your LSW from the state of Ohio, and normal background check passage.