iJAG Career Education Specialist 11/12 Mason City

EVERY STUDENT, NO MATTER WHAT For 25 years, iJAG has been dedicated to empowering Iowa’s youth to succeed, thrive, and become future-ready leaders. At iJAG, our mission is to ensure a future Iowa where every youth is resilient and well-prepared with the skills, purpose, and opportunities they need. Through collaborative partnerships and innovative approaches, we bridge the gap between education and employment, building strong communities and unlocking the potential of every student—no matter what! Our team of Career Education Specialists plays a crucial role in helping students thrive by developing essential employability skills through project-based learning in small classes. We also partner with employers throughout the school year to provide meaningful work-based learning opportunities. Our ultimate goal is to equip all students with the skills and experiences necessary for lasting success. If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact and committed to helping young people reach their full potential, we want you on our team! Are you ready to be part of something transformative? Position Overview The 11th and 12th Grade Career Education Specialist at iJAG is a cornerstone role that guides high school students toward academic and personal excellence. This role integrates project-based learning (PBL), individual mentoring, data-driven strategies, and work-based learning initiatives, working closely with employer partnerships to prepare students for successful futures. Essential Functions Student Recruitment and Engagement: Proactively build and sustain a vibrant student cohort for the iJAG program, strategically promoting it within the school's community. Partner with school administration to identify and select students fitting program criteria, ensuring seamless progression from district feeder programs. Conduct outreach efforts and informational sessions for prospective students, their parents/guardians, and school partners to explain the benefits and opportunities provided by the iJAG program, increasing awareness and interest. Instructional Delivery and Classroom Management: Employs project-based learning (PBL) methodologies to develop engaging and transformative educational journeys, seamlessly bridging classroom theory with real-world applications, thereby enriching students’ practical understanding and skills. Utilizes iJAG's competency-based approach to steer project creation and cultivate a student-centered learning environment, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and personalized growth. Champions student empowerment and autonomy, cultivating an inclusive learning environment that encourages teamwork and community building. Develop and maintain a positive, structured learning environment that promotes student engagement and participation through effective classroom management strategies, adapting techniques to meet the diverse needs of learners and ensuring equitable access to learning opportunities. Implement effective behavior management plans and conflict resolution strategies to cultivate a safe, respectful classroom culture, enabling students to focus on their academic and personal growth within a supportive and inclusive classroom setting. Data Management and Analysis: Maintains accurate student records, systematically tracking essential metrics including attendance, academic performance, and program participation, to monitor and enhance student progress effectively. Skillfully analyzes data to evaluate the impact of the iJAG program on student outcomes, utilizing insights to identify areas needing targeted interventions or additional supports, thereby optimizing student success. Manages and updates Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) for students, participating in relevant meetings to advocate and adapt educational strategies to meet the unique needs of each learner. Community and Employer Engagement: Designs and implements comprehensive work-based learning programs that integrate academic learning with practical workplace experiences, preparing students for life after high school by developing their professional skills and understanding industry expectations. Coordinates student placements in work-based learning settings, including internships and apprenticeships, ensuring a match between student interest and employer needs, and provides ongoing support to both students and employers to maximize learning outcomes and workplace success. Actively cultivates and maintains robust relationships with a broad spectrum of employers, securing a variety of career exploration and skill development opportunities that align with student interests and market demands. Cultivates and mobilizes community resources, developing partnerships and collaborations that support the educational experience and open new pathways for iJAG students, thereby ensuring support and opportunities for student support. Professional Development and Support: Engages in collaboration with the program supervisor and school administration, leveraging collective expertise to drive the success of the program and ensure it meets both educational standards and student needs effectively. Participate in iJAG and school district professional development activities to stay updated on best practices and continuously enhance skills and knowledge. Actively supports graduating seniors by providing resources and personalized guidance tailored to their post-graduation aspirations, facilitating a smooth transition into further education, military, training, or employment opportunities.