CMS pushes need for additional emotional support staff in schools

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — When students at Ranson Middle School are in need of school supplies, food, a warm jacket, or just someone to talk to, they know where to turn.

Jon Rochester is the school social worker, and said he stays busy.

"My office is a revolving door, I can even put a sign 'we're in a meeting' and the door knocks," Jon Rochester said, "it's like the intersection of I-77 and 485."

He said he loves his job and the kids love him. He does the best he can giving students at the Title 1 school everything they need to succeed.

"There's so many needs and barriers to children's education that are presented to me on a daily basis from social emotional to mental health to just basic needs from hygiene products to food to clothing," said Rochester.

But he's the only social worker, in addition to other support staff, also stretched thin. For example, the school psychologist rotates between Ranson and two other schools.

According to data provided by Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools, the national recommendation for social workers is one worker for every 250 students. At CMS, it's one worker for every 2208 students.

For psychologists, the recommendation is one psychologist for every 500-700 students. At CMS, it's one psychologist for every 1849 students.

For counselors it one counselor for every 250 students versus CMS' which is one counselor for every 357 students.

School board member Margaret Marshall says that's why they're pushing the county and state again for more funding for these positions that make personal connections with students.

"Those folks as a team can work with students, to solve all sorts of problems that they're experiencing," said Marshall. "Because when those are stronger kids are safer and they do better academically.”

"Usually I have a laundry list of children or needs that I need to get to, but I'm only one person. I can only do so much,” said Rochester.

Cox Media Group