School District Social Worker
McKinney-Vento Liaison
Foster Care Point of Contact
Social-emotional Wellness Team Member
waltong@acs.k12.sc.us
School District Social Worker
McKinney-Vento Liaison
Foster Care Point of Contact
Social-emotional Wellness Team Member
waltong@acs.k12.sc.us
School social work is a vital support system that focuses on the well-being and educational success of our students. Our school social workers collaborate with students, families, and educators to address various challenges that can impact learning, including emotional, social, and environmental factors. By recognizing the importance of social determinants of health—such as housing stability, access to healthcare, and family dynamics—school social workers provide resources and restorative interventions through collaboration that help students thrive both academically and personally.
Through guidance, advocacy, and community connections, the school social worker creates a safe and supportive environment that fosters resilience and growth. Our district school social worker is dedicated to ensuring that every student has the tools and support they need to achieve their full potential, making our school a healthier and more inclusive place for all.
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act of 1987 is a vital federal law designed to support children and youth experiencing homelessness. This legislation helps ensure that all students, regardless of their living situation, have access to a stable and supportive educational environment. It recognizes that many young people may not have a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence, which can significantly affect their ability to thrive in school.
Under the McKinney-Vento Act, every school district is required to appoint a liaison specifically for homeless students. This liaison plays a crucial role in coordinating services that help these children enroll in school and succeed academically. They work tirelessly to break down barriers that might hinder participation, acknowledging the impact of social determinants of health and wellness—like housing stability—on a student’s ability to learn and grow.
The primary goal of the McKinney-Vento Act is to guarantee that homeless students receive the same high-quality, free public education that every child in South Carolina deserves. Schools are mandated to develop and continuously refine policies that facilitate enrollment, attendance, and academic success for these students, ensuring that they have the support they need to thrive.
Resources and guidance are available for everyone involved—students, parents, guardians, school staff, and the community. We invite you to explore the information linked below for more support and resources. Together, we can create a nurturing environment that fosters the success of all our students.
In our district, referrals to the school social worker are primarily filtered through school counselors, following the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) protocols. This structured approach ensures that students receive the appropriate support tailored to their specific needs.