Maria Ruelas, EdD ‘18, MSW ‘13, has been named the 2025 School Social Worker of the Year by the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) for her outstanding leadership and dedication as District Social Worker for the Lawndale Elementary School District (LESD). 

“I am so humbled by this recognition,” Ruelas said. “There are over 80 school districts and 1.3 million students across LA County and so many incredible social workers working to serve their needs. It is truly special to be honored with this award.” 

After receiving her MSW from the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work in 2013, Ruelas became the first social worker at LESD. The district comprises eight schools, including two middle schools and six elementary schools. Through Ruelas’ leadership, they now have a social worker in every school, as well as a robust internship program that hosts graduate-level students from a variety of universities and disciplines to serve the mental health needs of the students, many of whom come from low socioeconomic backgrounds. As District Social Worker, she provides oversight to all the social workers at the school sites, and develops and manages macro-level projects. She is also part of the leadership team for her district, which she credits with giving her the ability to make a difference. 

“When you’re not at the table, you’re not making decisions or chiming in on conversations,” Ruelas said. “And it makes it difficult to push initiatives forward, or to push for something like social work in school settings.” 

This is the second time Ruelas has been recognized for her leadership in elevating the role of social work in schools. In 2018, she was named School Social Worker of the Year by the California Association of School Social Workers. 

“My view of the importance of addressing societal problems and trying to bridge gaps all comes from my education at USC and what it means to be a Trojan,” Ruelas said. “It’s belief in inclusivity, bringing people together and maximizing excellence.”