As we conclude National School Social Work Month, we would like to thank all of our social workers in Rochester Public Schools. Their commitment to our students, fostering inclusive learning environments, and helping students with their well-being makes a huge difference. Thank you!
As we wrap up the month, we’d like to highlight one of our beloved social workers, Kurt Njos. Kurt works at Mayo High School and has been with the district for about five years. He has been a licensed social worker since 2015.
Describe what you do as a social worker at Mayo High School.
As a school social worker, my job duties vary a lot from day to day. I provide support to students and families in many different areas and ways. This support may include one-on-one and group mental health support, connecting services and other resources to help students and families meet their basic needs, and working with students to support their social-emotional goals. Overall, it is important to support students so they have what they need to not only have a positive and successful academic career, but also to succeed in life.
What do you find rewarding about your profession?
I absolutely love having the opportunity to work with students and staff at Mayo High School. They are a great group of young adults who, unfortunately, face complex challenges and might need more professional support. I really do find it an honor to work with individuals who might be facing some of the most challenging times in their lives and that they allow me to be a part of helping them navigate through that.
What do you want the public to know about you and other social workers?
We are here to help! The mental health team at Rochester Public School District is some of the best in the business. The team has lots of years of experience and is a great spot to come for non-judgmental support. There is a large spectrum of what form that support might look like.
Are there any common misconceptions about social workers that you are aware of?
I think many people do not realize precisely what social workers do or what we can do. We can provide clinical-based therapy for individuals and families. We can support individuals and their families to help meet their basic needs by setting up resources like housing, medical insurance, food insecurity support, and other things that can help meet their basic needs.
Why do you do what you do?
The main reason I do this job is because I absolutely love it. I love working with students and staff and being able to help them navigate through difficult situations that, unfortunately, can be extremely difficult for everybody, much less someone who is not even an adult yet. It always amazes me what a bunch of resilient and exceptional students I work with daily. I love being a part of a team that helps support students through their educational path and hopefully can help be positive support as they continue with their academic path and life.