School social work is a specialized area of practice within the broad field of the social work profession. Virginia regulations (8VAC20-23-700), specify that school social workers must have a master’s of social work degree and must obtain a Virginia Board of Education (VDOE) Pupil Personnel Services License with an endorsement in School Social Work to practice in Virginia public schools.  © Virginia Department of Education, adapted

School social work services utilizes the National School Social Work Practice Model (PDF) for the delivery of school social work services. This model provides a general framework and identifies the skills and services that can be expected from school social workers. Additional information regarding standards that define the scope of school social work services can also be found at NASW's Standards for School Social Work Services.

In addition to following school division policies and regulations, school social workers are guided by professional ethics, including the NASW Code of Ethics and the supplemental SSWAA Ethical Guidelines for School Social Work.