Laura Etheridge

Laura earned her Bachelor of Social Work, Master of Social Work, and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Georgia and is a proud "Double Dawg". Laura is currently a doctoral candidate at the University of Kentucky, pursuing her Doctor of Social Work degree focusing her research on trauma-informed schools. Laura previously worked as a bilingual medical social worker for Northeast Georgia Health System and as a school social worker at Gainesville City Schools. She has a passion for social work, both professionally and personally. Laura is a proud daughter of Mexican immigrant parents, bringing awareness to language barriers, cultural norms, and differences in family dynamics. She is a compassionate advocate for all students and families and understands the importance of public education as a first-generation student.

Laura has been an active member of School Social Workers Association of Georgia (SSWAG) serving in various roles, including District 9 vice president during the 2020-2021 school year and District 9 president during the 2021-2022 school year. Laura received the Barrow's BEST (Barrow's Exceptional Support Team) Award for Contributing Professional in the 2022-2023 school year, where her work with unaccompanied youth and foster care youth was highlighted. In the 2023-2024 school year, Laura joined the DFCS Human Trafficking Policy Development - Education Workgroup in efforts to develop policies for schools for survivors of human trafficking along with other school social workers in the state. Laura is currently on the GaDOE School Social Work Advisory Board where she collaborates with other school social workers to provide guidance, share information, and make recommendations to support school social work efforts statewide.

In efforts to tackle food injustice, Laura coordinates the Feeding Barrow program, a weekend food bag program that serves over 400 students in Barrow County Schools. In 2022, Laura expanded the program, not just to feed students but to also provide other basic needs, creating a fund for school counselors at every school/program in Barrow County Schools. Laura was an instrumental part in coordinating the First, Second, and Fourth annual You Matter Summit. The goal of the summit is to increase training and learning opportunities for professionals in an effort to reduce incidents of suicide and build a trauma-informed community. Laura is a member of the Community Christmas Assistance Program Committee, which has helped thousands of Barrow children and their families.

Laura resides in Barrow County with her spouse and her two children where they actively volunteer in various ways. She has seen firsthand the strength and resiliency of students, staff, families, and neighbors. Laura continues to advocate for the importance and expansion of the school social work profession. Laura is a fearless advocate and truly believes every child deserves an education, despite the challenges in their lives.

Laura serves Apalachee High School, Haymon Morris Middle School, and the Newcomer Program at Westside Middle School.