Final answer:
The social worker's short-term goal should be to address the immediate health concerns of the mother and children living next to the mining site by helping the mother obtain medical insurance for herself and her children.
Step-by-step explanation:
The short-term goal for a social worker in this scenario should be to address the immediate health concerns of the mother and children living next to the mining site. The social worker can help the mother access medical services through government assistance programs such as Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). These programs provide health insurance coverage to low-income individuals and families who meet certain eligibility criteria. By assisting the mother in obtaining medical insurance for herself and her children, the social worker can ensure that the family receives the necessary healthcare services and improve the children's attendance and well-being.