A Center School teacher told the Ellington School District Board of Education that student behavior and persistent bullying require more consistent access to school social workers.

Crystal Banville, speaking during the citizens and staff forum, said district staff are stretched responding to repeated aggressive behaviors and recommended the board add ‘‘at least one, if not two, full‑time social workers for the 2026–27 budget.’’ She cited national and state benchmarks: the School Social Work Association of America recommends about one social worker per 250 students; Connecticut’s average is roughly one per 580, and Banville said Ellington currently has one social worker for all three elementary schools—about a 1:1,300 ratio.

Banville said that while school psychologists serve important roles, their responsibilities differ and include testing and IEP work, which limits their ability to provide the continuous, in‑the‑moment intervention social workers deliver. She urged the board to review withdrawal and enrollment data and follow up with families who have chosen to leave the district because of behavior concerns.

Board members acknowledged the concern and placed the issue within the district’s upcoming budget discussions. The finance committee and administration will continue to review staffing needs and budget options during the budget calendar process; Banville explicitly recommended funding the positions in the 2026–27 budget.

The public comment on social‑work staffing was recorded for the meeting minutes and referred to budget planning and personnel discussions rather than immediate action.