Joy Stickney-McDonald, Ph.D., LSW, SSW, HSV, school social worker at Mill Creek Elementary School, earned her Ph.D. in psychology at Walden University in June.
“Learning is a lifelong process,” said Stickney-McDonald. “Obtaining my doctorate was a personal goal. I wanted to further my education to improve my interactions and expertise with students and stakeholders. To quote Maya Angelou, ‘Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.’”
Stickney-McDonald has worked as an elementary school social worker in BTSD since 2007.
“I love my profession as a school social worker. I admire the teachers and staff I work with, the students and their families, and the Bristol Township community,” she said. “BTSD supports the whole child, and I am fortunate to be employed in a district that values diversity and innovative teaching and learning methods.”
With a rise in disruptive classroom behaviors, Stickney-McDonald’s dissertation explored how these challenging behaviors affect teachers’ instruction, social relationships, and academic outcomes. Research found that the earlier the intervention programs are implemented the better because individuals with early behavior difficulties have an increased risk of school dropout, poor socialization, substance abuse, and mental health diagnoses. These interventions may include positive behavior programs, such as SWPBIS, which is currently implemented in all BTSD schools.
“My doctorate coursework provided me with relevant theories and research to advance my knowledge in psychology,” said Stickney-McDonald. “I will use these skills when working with students at Mill Creek Elementary and advocating for their social, emotional, behavioral, and academic needs.”
Stickney-McDonald holds a PA license in Social Work and certifications in School Social Work and Home and School Visitor. She earned her master’s degree in social work from Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research, and her undergraduate degree in psychology and cultural anthropology from the University of Pittsburgh.
"Congratulations to Dr. Stickney-McDonald," said Assistant Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer (COO) Chris Polzer, Ed.D. "This is an incredible achievement that enriches our school community and showcases her commitment to education."