Student Support Advocate (Culture & Chronic Absenteeism)

Company Description

About KIPP Kansas City Public Schools:

KIPP Kansas City Public Schools is part of a nationwide network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory charter schools dedicated to preparing students in educationally underserved communities for success in college and life. Our strength as a region serves as a catalyst for empowerment, change, and hope.

Founded in 2007, KIPP Kansas City Public Schools began with KIPP Endeavor Academy, serving approximately 31 fifth-grade students. Today, we educate approximately 1,000 students from Pre-K through 12th grade, with our community continuing to expand. Together with families and communities, we strive to create joyful, academically excellent schools that equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue their chosen paths—whether college, career, or beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and contribute to a more just world.

Job Description

Position Overview:

The Student Support Advocate (Culture & Chronic Absenteeism) plays a crucial role in enhancing the school culture and addressing chronic absenteeism among students at KIPP Kansas City. This position focuses on building positive relationships with students, families, and staff to promote a safe and supportive school environment. The officer will develop and implement strategies to improve attendance, engage families, and foster a culture of respect and responsibility within the school community.

Key Responsibilities: 

Cultural Development:

• Foster a positive and inclusive school culture by implementing programs and initiatives that celebrate diversity and promote respect among students.
• Collaborate with teachers and staff to create a safe and supportive environment where all students feel valued and engaged.
• Develop and facilitate workshops and activities aimed at enhancing social-emotional learning and student well-being.

Chronic Absenteeism Intervention:

• Monitor attendance data to identify patterns of chronic absenteeism and develop targeted interventions to support at-risk students.
• Work closely with families to understand barriers to attendance and provide resources and support to help overcome those challenges.
• Collaborate with community organizations and stakeholders to connect families with necessary services, such as transportation, mental health support, and other resources.

Student Support and Engagement:

• Establish and maintain positive relationships with students, serving as a trusted adult and advocate within the school.
• Implement restorative practices to address behavioral issues and promote conflict resolution among students.
• Conduct regular check-ins with students to assess their needs and provide support in navigating academic and social challenges.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field (required); Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience working with youth in an educational or community setting, particularly focusing on culture and attendance (preferred).
• Knowledge of effective strategies for improving school culture and reducing chronic absenteeism.

Skills and Competencies: 

• Commitment to KIPP KC’s mission and values
• Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse environment
• Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Fosters an inclusive environment for students, staff, and families
• Works effectively with colleagues and stakeholders
• Builds strong relationships within the KIPP KC community

Physical Requirements: 

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions. 
• The person in this position needs to be able to move about inside and outside the school or office throughout the workday.
• The candidate is expected to attend conferences, meetings and training sessions both virtually and in person within the Region. 

Additional Information

Work Environment

• Reports to work Monday-Friday and some weekends. 
• A typical school or office environment with frequent interruptions.

Travel Requirements:

• Ability to travel to work location. 

Compensation and Benefits:

Salary is based on years of experience, educational background, and level of expertise.

As a full-time KIPP Kansas City employee, you are eligible to participate in all KIPP Kansas City benefit plans. We offer a comprehensive range of benefits with competitive rates, including medical, dental, and vision options, as well as life insurance, fertility, and disability plans.

KIPP Kansas City is committed to the professional growth and development of our staff. We provide numerous opportunities for advancement, ongoing professional development, and leadership training to help you achieve your career goals.

KIPP Kansas City provides equal employment opportunities for all applicants and employees. As an equal opportunity employer, we hire without consideration of race, religion, creed, color, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, veteran status, or disability.