School Social Work Week, observed from March 3 through March 7, is a time to recognize the invaluable contributions of our School Resource Specialist (SRS) team. While diverse in their backgrounds, our SRS team shares a common dedication to providing emotional support, guidance, and resources that enhance our students' academic and personal growth.
Our school resource specialists work tirelessly to foster student well-being. Whether through group sessions, one-on-one support, or implementing strategies for overall success, they play a crucial role in creating a positive and supportive school environment.
Throughout the week, we will be spotlighting members of our SRS team and the meaningful work they do. Meredith Lageschulte, a school resource specialist at Marshalltown High School, is one of many dedicated professionals committed to ensuring students feel heard, supported, and empowered.
Learn more about her experiences and insights by reading Lageschulte’s responses to the following Q&A:
What inspired you to be a school resource specialist?
I felt my background in social work well-equipped me to help and support the students and families in the Marshalltown Community School District. Receiving a quality education is powerful, and by dedicating my time to supporting students in navigating life difficulties, I can help students build skills to be prepared for success.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Without question, it's the relationships built with students along the way. It fills me with pride to see a student accomplish goals and overcome challenges. Seeing students after they've graduated and hearing life updates, it fills me with pride to think that MHS has been a part of building the foundation to grow and achieve!
How do you help students navigate difficult social or emotional situations?
Mental health is a passion of mine, as a growing area of need in my time at MHS. Assisting student in processing their difficulties, we can work together to develop coping strategies and create ongoing goals, or I can help make a connection for mental health counseling with one of our community agency partners. Recognizing the significant need within our adolescent population, I am currently working towards my masters in mental health counseling, to be better equipped to support students in their areas of struggle.
What makes Marshalltown’s approach to supporting students unique?
MCSD has been inventive in creating systems that consider students holistically, as well as to support the family system. Our district is rich in support professionals, available to address barriers and create avenues for success. I am proud to work along such a dynamic team of professionals, diligently engaged in efforts for the betterment of our students and families.
What does it mean to you to Embrace The Lead?
Embrace The Lead is mindset, with the district providing avenues for staff to grow their professional talents and abilities to ensure our students are receiving top tier education and support. The potential of our students is limitless, and we show up to help students see how they can strive to be the best versions of themselves.