Rose Molina, LICSW, NCSSW
Rose Molina, LICSW, NCSSW, is a nationally recognized school social worker, educator, and special education leader dedicated to advancing equitable, trauma-responsive educational systems. She currently serves in a dual role as Director of Special Education and School Social Worker at a small state charter school in Providence, where she oversees specialized services, individualized education planning, and program development while providing direct clinical and social-emotional support to students. This marks her first year in the dual leadership role, following two years at the school. Rose is also an adjunct faculty member at Providence College School of Social Work, where she helps prepare and mentor future social work professionals. Rose’s professional philosophy is grounded in advocacy and the NASW Code of Ethics, guiding her commitment to student-centered, ethical, and community-focused practice. She prioritizes being a consistent and supportive presence for students—offering daily connection, crisis intervention, mediation, and comprehensive case management—while building strong bridges between schools, families, and the surrounding community. With 19 years of experience in school social work, she has supervised social work interns, taught at the collegiate level, and contributed to professional leadership through her service on the Rhode Island NASW board and her recent appointment to the School Social Work Association of America (SSWAA) board. In addition to her educational and clinical work, Rose is a personal trainer and co-owner of a family gym she founded with her partner in 2018, where she specializes in strength training and developed a signature “MOMS: Moms on a Mission” program to support families in wellness and connection. She is the first Nationally Certified School Social Worker in Rhode Island and was named the 2022 NASW School Social Worker of the Year. Rose holds a Master of Social Work in Clinical/Medical Social Work from Rhode Island College and is professionally proficient in Spanish and American Sign Language. A dedicated mother of three daughters, she is beginning her doctoral studies in May 2026 and remains deeply committed to mentoring future professionals, advancing ethical practice, and advocating for inclusive, supportive school communities.
• Certified Autism Education 2013
• Rhode Island College - MSW, Clinical/Medical Social Work
• University of Rhode Island - B.S. in Human Development and Family Studies
• Named Rhode Island 2022 School Social Worker of the Year
• National Association of Social Workers
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my lived experience as a youth, which inspired me to pursue a career in social work and advocacy. Those early experiences shaped my understanding of resilience, equity, and the importance of consistent, compassionate support systems for young people. They continue to ground my work today, driving my commitment to ethical practice, student-centered advocacy, and building inclusive environments where every student is seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came from mentors who helped me navigate imposter syndrome and recognize the value I bring to the work. They reminded me that I have so much to give and encouraged me to never lose my passion for supporting others. Equally important, they emphasized the necessity of self-care and healthy boundaries, teaching me that sustaining a meaningful career in social work requires caring for myself as intentionally as I care for others.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Encourages early-career professionals to act boldly for their students: don't ask for permission ask for forgiveness when necessary to meet needs. Emphasizes mentorship, maintaining passion, and the importance of self-care and boundaries.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is working within systems that are often under-resourced and not fully equipped to meet students’ complex needs—particularly when it comes to access to mental health services, educational supports, and stable housing. At the same time, this presents a powerful opportunity to advocate for systemic change, strengthen community partnerships, and develop innovative supports that better address barriers faced by students and families. By pushing for more equitable resources and policies, we have the chance to create more responsive, holistic systems that truly support student well-being and long-term success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are ethics, advocacy, and passion. I ground my practice in the NASW Code of Ethics and strive to lead with integrity, accountability, and compassion in every role I hold. I am deeply passionate about advocacy—especially for students and families who may not always have a voice—and I see it as my responsibility to speak up, challenge inequities, and create systems of support. Whether professionally or personally, I believe in showing up with purpose, empathy, and a commitment to making meaningful, ethical change.