MOULTRIE, Ga. — Okapilco Pre-K students from Mrs. Slappy’s and Mrs. Robert’s class proudly display their card honoring Okapilco’s social worker, Tonja Merritt.

Each year the National Association of School Social Workers is celebrated during the month of March. School social workers play a vital role in the educational team that helps address the needs of students and families, according to a press release from Okapilco Elementary School. Students receive assistance to help them overcome issues with social skills, self-esteem, anxiety, anger management, stress, divorce, and homelessness.

From left are Azul Cacho, Gabriela Deleon, Kace Edge, Tremaya Scott, Travien Ford and Jaxon Boyd.