SOME (So Others Might Eat) provides material aid and comfort to our vulnerable neighbors in the District of Columbia, helping them to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness through programs and services that save lives, improve lives, and help to transform the lives of individuals and families, their communities, and the systems and structures that affect them. We meet immediate needs with food, clothing, and healthcare and offer the tools one needs to live with hope, dignity, and greater independence.

Compensation: We offer our employees a competitive compensation and benefits package that reflects our organizational culture, mission, and core values. The salary range for this position is $86,507.00 to $101,649.00 and may be commensurate with experience.

Position Description: The Education & Engagement Director primary function is to lead and support education related processes, activities and initiatives in the department. The incumbent will empower and build parent's confidence and knowledge of the educational systems and laws that impact them and their families. The Education & Engagement Director refer students to appropriate behavioral, vocational and educational supportive services. Provide training to staff and residents, as well as connect staff to resources and services that will encourage parental involvement in education and promote strong educational outcomes.

Required: Master's Degree in Education, Social Work or Counseling; 3-5 yrs. experience in education field; 2 yrs. experience with special education and working with grades K - 12; Experience working in the DC Public School system or Charter school system; experience with navigating the educational system in DC and working with students and parents; previous supervisory experience.

Required License/Certification: CPR/First-Aid, CPR for Infants, valid Driver's License and access to personal vehicle. MSW/BSW/ Master level Psychology related graduates must be licensed to practice in Washington, DC by the Department of Health.

Schedule: Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm; some evening hours, as needed.

Expected Contributions:

• Knowledge of navigating DC Public Schools, Charter schools and Private school systems
• Knowledge and understanding of grades K-12 and special education
• Knowledge of laws and legal rights of students and parents and the effect on families (i.e.. McKinney Vento, IDEA, etc.)
• Knowledge of principles and processes for providing customer and individualized services. This includes understanding residents needs, meeting quality standards for services, and evaluation of satisfaction.
• Knowledge of 504 planning and IEP process as well as know how to advocate for needed accommodations for children impacted
• Skilled in identifying signs and behaviors of ADHD, ADD, dyslexia, and other learning disabilities
• Familiarity with the practice of restorative justice in schools
• Knowledge of family/group/individual behavior and dynamics and sensitive to diverse cultural backgrounds
• Proficient with MS Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook
• Ability to lead and facilitate workshops and trainings
• Ability to effectively organize and prioritize work tasks
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally as appropriate for the needs of the audience. Talking to others to convey information effectively.
• Ability to establish and adhere to strong professional boundaries

Expected Contributions: Consultation, Engagement and Advocacy

• Engage with parents and foster partnership between school and family
• Link children and adults with resources and opportunities to improve education
• Ensure school's compliance with IEPs and special education laws
• Assist parents with understanding eligibility decisions, available services and supports are being offered or recommended by the school, and the appropriateness of those recommendations
• Provide crisis intervention to students when difficult situations occur at schools and in SPFK setting.
• Perform educational and vocational assessments to identify needs of children and family; document activities accordingly
• Confer with parents, teachers, and other professionals to discuss children's progress, resolve behavioral, academic, and other problems, and to determine priorities for students

Training & Program Management:

• Oversee the training of Program Assistants and SPFK after-school programs
• Oversee adult and early childhood initiatives in the department
• Provide oversight of high school transition program and college readiness program
• Manage data collection and track program outcomes

Reports to: SVP, Family Services

Position Designation: This position is designated as Safety Sensitive. You may be subject to drug testing prior to or during your employment with SOME. In this position, you may be disqualified from employment based on the presence of marijuana in test results, even if you possess a medical card authorizing the use of medical marijuana.

Physical Demands: Must be able to lift up to 20 pounds. Requires looking at a computer screen for several hours a day. May be required to sit for long periods.

To Apply: Go to our career page at https://www.some.org/careers/open-opportunities click on the search icon to locate this position. Follow the instructions to complete your on-line application profile to be considered. No phone calls please.

SOME (So Others Might Eat) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, personal appearance, family responsibilities, genetic information, disability, matriculation, political affiliation, veteran status, or liability for service in the Armed forces of the United States. SOME (So Others Might Eat) is also a Drug-Free Workplace.