School Social Worker

SUMMARY:

The School Social Worker addresses the social well-being of students in grades 6-12, working with both the general student population and students whose needs are identified in an Individualized Learning Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan. The School Social Worker provides information and counseling to help students, parents and school staff work together to solve problems by communicating and providing referrals to other resources and develops and promotes good community relations among HOPE, Learning Center and community clientele.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Priority Area: Student Case Management

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide mental health education and support to students (both special and general education) using a three tier model including individual, group and instructional support.
• Consult with parents and school personnel to address student social and emotional issues. Assist families in understanding mental health issues and accessing community agencies and resources.
• Provide mental health crisis intervention at assigned Learning Centers including suicide and threat assessments.
• Maintain accurate and up to date records students whether direct or indirect services. Information will be documented as required by the school and authorizing school district. Create, organize and update case history records and prepare reports, according to deadlines.
• Conduct Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) and develop Behavior Intervention Plans (BIP) as required for students Develop behavior plans for students struggling with emotional regulation.
• Deliver professional development on mental health topics including trauma, poverty, mental health issues and effective practice to support student success including coaching staff on appropriate responses to mental health issues.
• Complete required assessment, interviews and observations, complete paperwork and participate in IEP/504 meetings as required students with disabilities or those suspected of having a disability
• Serve as a liaison between students, homes, schools, family services, child guidance clinics, courts, protective services, doctors, and other contacts.
• Provide support and coaching to improve classroom management and student engagement.
• Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

Priority Area: Lead by exemplifying professionalism and commitment to community

Duties and Responsibilities

• Adjusts practice and prioritization of other tasks based on the needs of the Learning Center and HOPE.
• Manages time to fulfill job duties and responsibilities
• Sets personal goals related to student learning outcomes and seeks opportunities to improve personal professional practice through professional development and reflection
• Collaborates to accomplish team, Learning Center and HOPE goals and practices
• Develops relationships with HOPE and Learning Center staff, parents and students that fosters a safe and culturally responsive learning environment
• Establishes and maintains professional communication which is clear, responsible, ethical, and respectful
• Supports counseling protocols that are focused on increasing student achievement
• Other duties as assigned

EDUCATION, LICENSURE, AND RELATED WORK EXPERIENCE:

Required

• Master’s Degree
• Licensed Clinical Social Worker - DORA, or Special Services Provider License - Social Worker - Colorado Department of Education
• 3 years’ experience, at least two of which is working with at-risk youth in a multicultural environment
• Comfortable working with students in grades 6-12
• Experience supporting and providing support for diverse learners (CLD, SPED, MTSS, GT)

Preferred

• Experience working with ELL students and families, in a public or private school setting
• 5 years’ experience, at least two of which is working with at-risk youth in a multicultural environment

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

Required

• Commitment to social justice and equitable education for all
• Cultural proficiency and interpersonal/relationship building skills
• Fluency and literacy in English; excellent oral and written communication skills
• Excellent technology skills – Online curriculum, Google Docs, Drive and Gmail, MS Office, Student Information and learning management systems
• Proactive and detail oriented, able to prioritize and be self-directed
• Advocacy for community-based learning models
• Flexible and resilient, diplomatic, positive and engaging attitude

Preferred

• Oral and written fluency in Spanish

REPORTING RELATIONSHIP:

The School Social Worker reports to and is evaluated by the Social Worker Coordinator with feedback from other members of the HOPE instructional team. The School Social Worker does not supervise any HOPE or Learning Center employees.

PHYSICAL AND MENTAL FUNCTIONING REQUIREMENTS:

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to:

• Compare, analyze, communicate, instruct, synthesize, evaluate, use interpersonal skills, compile and negotiate
• Communicate effectively using speech and hearing
• Use near vision to see details at close range (within a few feet of the observer) as required for computer use, reading and instruction
• Use hands for extended periods of time at a keyboard or workstation
• Operate office machines and computer equipment
• Be subject to standing, walking, sitting, bending, reaching, kneeling, climbing, balancing, stooping, pushing and pulling
• Occasionally lift objects up to 25 pounds

LOCATION, WORKING ENVIRONMENT, AND TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

Work is routinely performed in an office or classroom environment with moderate noise level. The School Social Worker works at one or more assigned Learning Centers. Travel between the assigned Learning Centers (if assigned to more than one) and to the HOPE Office for training and meetings is the responsibility of the employee. Compensation for mileage is per the HOPE Mileage policy.