Retired teacher raises concerns about licensing and unlicensed social‑work roles in district

At the Aug. 21 Brentwood board meeting, retired teacher Ken Schroeder urged the district to confirm licensing for staff in social‑work and psychology roles and warned that some employees listed in personnel materials lack state licensure.

Schroeder said New York State distinguishes between state licensure for social workers and certification by the State Education Department, and that unlicensed social workers are limited in scope of practice. "They can only do group work. They cannot do individual work with any students," he said. He also said the district should avoid hiring through nepotism and raised concerns about candidates related to current administrators.

A board representative interrupted to request that commenters refrain from naming specific individuals; Schroeder said his remarks were prompted by earlier public comment and the personnel lists in the board packet. No formal action followed the public comment; the board acknowledged the concern and closed the public comment period.

The transcript does not show the board directing staff to perform a licensing audit or take follow‑up action during the meeting.