Southern Minnesota School Social Work Initiative

The purpose of the Southern Minnesota School Social Work Initiative is to address the social, emotional, and behavioral health needs of K-12 students in the region by increasing the number of BSSW and MSW students who are preparing to enter the School Social Work workforce. Selected students receive specialized practicum experiences, financial stipends to cover tuition, fees, and living expenses, as well as additional training, professional development, and licensure preparation. This initiative is funded by the MN Department of Education (MDE) Equity Diversity and Inclusion Center. This grant is open to all students and students who identify as a person of color or indigenous are strongly encouraged to apply.

Scholarship applications are reviewed by the BSSW & MSW Directors of Practicum Education and the Principal Investigator. Scholarship recipients will be selected using the following criteria:
1. Submission of all application material.
2. Completion of an interview with the review committee.
3. Successful applicants will display the commitment and ability to be educated in and employed in a school social work setting.
4. Commitment to practice in a school social work setting after graduating with their social work degree.
5. Contribution to the diversity of the school social work workforce in Minnesota.

All enrolled BSSW, Generalist MSW and Specialization MSW students who are starting their practicum in Spring 2026. Selected applicants will be expected to:
• Work closely with the Practicum Director in identifying a practicum site that fulfills the requirements of both the grant guidelines and the practicum education policies and procedures.
• Attend and participate in all meetings, seminars, and training opportunities required by the Southern Minnesota School Social Work Initiative.
• Upon graduation, students will pursue employment opportunities in school social work – particularly those in Southern MN. MDE expects all recipients to fulfill the work requirement post-licensure.
• Participate in all evaluation requirements of the Southern Minnesota School Social Work Initiative.
• Pursue and obtain social work licensure as through the Minnesota Board of Social Work and secure the School Social Work Credential through Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board.