Wheeler, Dena Maria
Email: dena.wheeler@spps.org
Phone: 651-744-6356
Qualifications: BA University of Wisconsin-Madison MSW Augsburg College LICSW
Dena Wheeler
Hello! My name is Dena Wheeler and I'm excited to work with the students, families, and staff of Jie Ming Mandarin Immersion Academy. I help students explore and practice social emotional learning skills which they'll use throughout their lives. I also help students and families connect with resources in our school and our community.
The elementary years are full of wonder and magic and they can also be difficult. Thankfully, we don't have to navigate this alone. A big part of my work is to support children and families through stressful situations and to celebrate growth!
I have worked with St. Paul Schools for over 20 years now. Prior to that, I earned my BA from UW-Madison and my Masters in Social Work from Augsburg College.
Outisde of work you can find me enjoying nature with my family, including my wife, son, and dogs. I also like yoga and reading.
School Social Workers provide a vital link among the school, home and community. Most School Social Workers are involved in providing services to all students. Most provide direct services to students and their families including casework, group work and classroom presentations as well as providing crisis intervention and consultation and making referrals to community agencies.