My name is Lexy Padilla and I am the Family Services Specialist with Poteau schools. We are working to build bridges to support educational achievement and home stability.  My position is a collaborative effort between the school district and Oklahoma Human Services. This position gives me the opportunity to meet families where they are to bridge gaps for our families between home, the community and school so that each student has the opportunity to be successful academically. This partnership creates a supportive atmosphere to address the diverse needs of students outside the classroom, paving the way for their success within it.  

FOCUS ON TEACHING: empowering teachers to focus on instruction while collaborating to support student well-being.

BOOSTED ATTENDANCE: working to keep students in the classroom as regularly as possible – conducting home visits, communicating school policy and explaining the process of citations for truancy. 

FULL WRAP AROUND SUPPORT: delivering comprehensive services to support our students as a whole – mind, body, and heart.

MENTAL HEALTH ACCESS: help to navigate out-of-classroom obstacles to help students feel better, think clearly, and engage more fully in school.

MEET BASIC NEEDS: ensure students have whatever they need to be successful - from meals to materials.

ACADEMIC ASSISTANCE: provide tailored help to break down barriers to learning.

FAMILY SUPPORT: strengthen family connections to build a solid foundation that is supportive of education as a top priority.

FAQ & INFO

Available Services

• Make home visits to student’s homes when requested and/or needed

• Assist families with applications to available Oklahoma Human Services

• Connect with at-risk students and families to resolve issues to prevent case worker (CPS) involvement

• Assist with child maltreatment concerns and/or reports

• Serve as liaison between home and school

• Participate in parent/school conferences and IEP meetings

• Assist students & their families with chronic absenteeism, truancy, food insecurity, utility assistance, domestic violence issues, substance abuse, head lice, personal hygiene, and other issues that could hinder student success

• Assist with basic needs such as food, clothing, shoes and school supplies

• Assist with transportation barriers when needed

What is a Family Service Coordinator?

The role of an FSS is to enhance the district’s ability to meet its academic mission by forming a collaboration between home, school, and the community.

What Does An FSS Typically Do?

The FSS works with the school’s students and their families to provide social services and, when needed, help apply for Medicaid, TANF and SNAP benefits.  The FSS may participate in team conferences regarding families’ and children’s needs with teachers counselors, school administrators, and child advocates within the confines of Oklahoma Human Services confidentiality.

How Can I Make A Referral to the FSS?

Using this link:  Referral Link Here