The purpose of social workers in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System is to support the mission of dropout prevention. Individuals in this role are required to have a Master's in Social Work. Their goal is to promote maximum development of all students by prevention/alleviation of problems that interfere with the tasks of learning through knowledge of human behavior, social systems and social work. They show evidences of professional growth and development and adhere to a professional code of ethics.

The school social worker uses assessment skills to determine special needs of students and provides input for program planning and evaluation of departmental and system-wide policies. They employ appropriate social work methods in situations affecting the student's educational progress. School social workers maintain an advocacy role to ensure that the student's educational, social, emotional and material needs are met in accordance with established laws, rules and regulations. They provide consultation and in-service experiences for teachers and staff and engage in the mutual exchange of information with community agencies. They provide individual and group counseling; consult with teachers on effective teaching and behavior management modalities.

Since family involvement is essential in the lives of students, school social workers serve as a liaison between home and school. School social workers promote effective community resource utilization and positive relations with various publics, which maximizes the success of all students.