Lynchburg City Schools (LCS) social worker Mark Clemons is the 2025 Virginia School Social Worker of the Year! This award, presented by the Virginia Association of School Social Workers (VASSW), honors one school social worker who demonstrates excellence in serving students and families while upholding standards and ethics defined by the National Association of Social Workers. Clemons is part of a tradition of excellence in social work throughout the division; three of the past six VASSW state award winners have been from LCS.
“Mark embodies the dedication, leadership, and compassion that define excellence in our profession. We are excited to recognize him for his outstanding contributions to the field of school social work and his dedication to the students, families, and colleagues he serves,” said VASSW President Jessica Hawkins.
He has served as a licensed clinical social worker at LCS for more than five years. Before his time at LCS, he spent 17 years as a clinician in a specialized school in New York and three as a foster care worker for the Department of Social Services in Lynchburg.
A leader in the community, Clemons serves as a licensure supervisor, peer mentor, and field instructor for aspiring social workers. He provides training for LCS employees on youth mental health support strategies, crisis intervention, behavior management, and other important topics. His commitment to building strong relationships with community partners ensures that students and families receive ongoing, multifaceted support.
“When Mark walks into a room, everyone instantly lights up. I believe that speaks to how great he is at building relationships and how much trust people have in him. He is so passionate about his work because he understands that everything he does impacts our children, families, and schools,” said LCS Chief Student Services Officer Dr. Derrick Brown. “Mark not only works with our students, but supervises other social workers toward clinical licensure, which provides even more support for our community. This one man has literally changed thousands of lives. His recognition as Virginia School Social Worker of the Year is a testament to the profound impact he has on the lives of so many."
Whether helping a fellow social worker through a challenging situation or sitting with a family in crisis outside of school hours, Clemons offers valuable support that promotes holistic student health and achievement.
“I am truly honored by this award and am deeply grateful for my time as a social worker with LCS. There are so many people here who brighten my days and make this the coolest job ever, including administrators, the teachers and staff at the schools I cover, the students and families who allow me to enter their lives for awhile, and my absolutely fabulous team of fellow LCS school social workers,” Clemons said.