National School Social Work Week | March 1–7, 2026
During National School Social Work Week, the Salem City School District proudly recognizes the dedicated professionals who work every day to support the academic, social, and emotional well-being of our students. School social workers play an essential role in connecting students and families with resources, building strong relationships, and ensuring that every child has the support they need to succeed.
This year, we celebrate three outstanding members of our team: Janine Champion, Joseph Longo, and Dale Primas-Garner. Through their compassion, advocacy, and commitment to the community, they make a lasting impact on the lives of Salem students and families.
Janine Champion
A social worker on the Child Study Team with 23 years in the district, Janine Champion was inspired to pursue social work by her lifelong desire to help others. After discovering the field through a course at Salem Community College, she realized it was the perfect path to support and advocate for people in need.
At Salem, Janine values the relationships she builds with students, families, and staff. She works to create an environment where people feel heard, supported, and valued. By connecting families with resources, advocating for students, and offering encouragement during difficult times, she helps ensure that students receive the support they need both inside and outside the classroom.
Janine collaborates closely with teachers and families by maintaining open communication and focusing on each student’s strengths. She regularly checks in with students, helps families access resources, and works with staff to support both academic and emotional growth.
Her message to students is simple but powerful: Believe in yourself and the difference you can make. Even small acts of kindness can leave a lasting mark on the world.
Joseph Longo
Joseph Longo has served as a School Social Worker on the Child Study Team for 16 years. His decision to dedicate his life to helping others was shaped by his experiences working in New York City and Jersey City leading up to the events of 9/11. After witnessing the tragedy, he committed himself to bringing hope and support to others.
Joseph’s connection to Salem runs deep; he lives in the community and attends church locally, making his work especially meaningful. Over the past year, he has organized several impactful community initiatives. These include coordinating a holiday shopping event that allowed more than 150 Salem students to shop for gifts for their loved ones and organizing opportunities for Salem Middle School students to purchase items of their choice with gift cards.
Beyond the school district, Joseph serves as Vice President and ambassador for CGS Family Partnership, working to provide free mental health services to children and families across the county. He also volunteers with community organizations that provide food and support to vulnerable residents and serves on the Quinton Board of Education.
In the classroom and when working with families, Joseph focuses on modeling positive behavior and ensuring students feel respected and supported. His message to students is heartfelt: You are not alone. Believe in yourself, and you can overcome any obstacle.
Dale Primas-Garner
Dale Primas-Garner has worked as a social worker for 16 years and currently supports Salem’s PreK population, helping our youngest learners and their families build a strong foundation for success.
Dale was inspired to enter social work by her deep desire to help others and make a positive difference in the lives of children and parents. Over the years, she has developed strong relationships with families who trust her to support them through challenges. Those connections, built on respect, care, and open communication, are what she finds most meaningful about her work.
Her support for the Salem community goes far beyond the classroom. Dale has helped families access essential resources such as food, clothing, school supplies, and transportation to important appointments. She has also organized experiences like college tours, family trips to historical and recreational sites, and assistance with prom attire for students.
Dale believes that collaboration begins with being present. By visiting classrooms regularly and communicating often with teachers and families, she ensures that students feel supported and understood.
Her message to Salem students reflects her encouraging spirit: Believe in yourself, keep trying, and remember that there is always someone here ready to support you. Getting back on track is always possible.
Thank You to Our School Social Workers!
The work of school social workers often happens behind the scenes, but the impact is felt throughout our schools and community. Through advocacy, compassion, and collaboration, Salem’s social workers help students overcome challenges, strengthen families, and create a supportive environment where every child can thrive.
During National School Social Work Week (celebrated March 1-7), we thank Janine Champion, Joseph Longo, and Dale Primas-Garner for their dedication to the students, families, and staff of the Salem City School District. Their commitment truly helps make Salem a stronger and more caring community.
