Shelby C. Burnett

Practice and Research Focus Areas

Burnett's specialty and focus in social work practice are youth mental and behavioral health within school settings. She incorporates ecological systems theory to examine the interactions between systems that affect the cohesiveness of these systems in schools, ultimately aiming to enhance youth mental health. 

As a doctoral student, her research explores the underrepresentation of school social workers in leadership and administrative roles within educational settings. She examines the impact of this marginalization on the effectiveness of student support services and resource allocation, while also investigating the lack of leadership training in social work education. Her research aims to address barriers in school social work and gaps in professional development, better preparing school social workers for leadership roles and ultimately improving outcomes for youth in educational environments.

DSW Capstone Project

Capstone project title: Reimagining Educational Leadership: The Need for School Social Workers in Administration

Capstone project description: This capstone project explores the underrepresentation of school social workers in leadership and administrative roles within educational settings, aiming to enhance their leadership skills and impact on student support services. It will benefit school social workers, students, and academic institutions by addressing gaps in leadership preparation, improving multidisciplinary team collaboration, and increasing the effectiveness of student support systems.