Students press committee; Lowell committee approves expanded training for social workers on child-trafficking warning signs

The Lowell School Committee on April 3 approved a motion directing the superintendent to develop comprehensive training for district social workers on warning signs of child trafficking so they can lead presentations for students and staff.

The motion was introduced by Mr. Arosi and seconded by Mr. Dy. Several Daily Middle School students who had researched the topic urged the committee to act. Gabriella Pier told the committee her class found that social workers had only brief prior training: “If the district could provide social workers with a whole day of training, she would be able to give presentations that would raise more awareness about child trafficking,” she said.

Other students described trafficking trends, raised concerns about refugees’ vulnerability and asked the district to consider a ‘train the trainer’ model so social workers can, in turn, brief teachers and students. Committee members supported adding staff presentations and requested the superintendent examine the frequency and length of social-worker professional development so the training could be more than short monthly meetings.

The motion passed; the superintendent will report back on training plans and timelines.