Osseo Area Schools ISD 279: National School Social Work Week: Park Center Senior High School Social Worker Provides Mental Health Support

Press release from the Osseo Area Schools ISD 279:

March 8, 2022

During National School Social Work Week (March 7-11), Osseo Area Schools recognizes the role school social workers play in providing additional support for students to achieve academic success. From responding to mental health and behavioral challenges, social workers move beyond the classroom to respond to the root cause of issues.

Kendra Kuhlmann, school social worker at Park Center Senior High School realized she wanted to become a social worker when she was in college. She started working in an adoption agency, but when her priorities and goals shifted, she applied for an opening as a student learning advocate for Osseo Area Schools. Now, Kuhlman has been with Osseo Area Schools for 13 years.

Kuhlmann has worked in elementary, early childhood, and high school. She has fond memories of Zanewood Community School where she admired the partnership with the recreation center and multitude of opportunities for students after school.

However, Kuhlmann always knew she wanted to work with young adults. In college, she worked with a youth outreach program that provided outdoor opportunities for students to learn lifelong skills.

“I just really loved working with the teenagers and their resiliency and their outlook on life,” Kulhmann shared.

In 2016, she joined Park Center as a social worker. This gave Kuhlmann the opportunity to work with students and families on a regular basis to assess needs and make school a safe environment. In her office, there are shelves of basic necessities including hygiene supplies, hats, and mittens. Additionally, she manages the use of the Calming Room, which is a space for students to use when they are overwhelmed.

“A lot more teachers are referring students to use the calming room. We have seen a lot more anxiety and depression that students and families have experienced with distance learning, hybrid learning, or family members passing away and that has been an emotional toll,” Kuhlman goes on.

Turnout for the Calming Room nearly doubled from previous years, and students stop in Kuhlmann’s office with various needs and questions. She introduces herself and does her best to ensure each student has their needs met. Though Kuhlmann knows that boundaries are important, she is compassionate for families who may need time outside of her regular work day.

“The most challenging part is having enough time to connect with students and families,” said Kuhlmann.

Over the past few years, Kuhlmann has become excited at the ways mental health has become a priority. Social work across the district has doubled, and she is excited to work on equity related issues. However, she says it is the students and families that keep her coming back everyday.

This press release was produced by the Osseo Area Schools ISD 279. The views expressed here are the author’s own.