EDUCATION SPECIALIST

BASIC FUNCTION:

To serve as a liaison between SCO/JJI, NYC Department of Education and Community Stakeholders. To ensure that all JJI youth receive appropriate education services and assist the JJI/MST team in implementing successful interventions targeted to reduce truancy, school violence and poor academic performance among youths enrolled in the JJI program. The ES position functions as assistant program director when needed. The Education Specialist meets with the JJI crisis manager weekly to coordinate supports and plans for the JJI youth and caregivers  Services are provided in a home and community based setting. Hours are based on client’s need and require occasional evening availability.

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RESPONSIBILITIES:

¨ Become the program’s expert in negotiating with NYC Department of Education, and advocating for appropriate educational services and teach JJI families how to do so on their own.

¨ Act as a resource for JJI/MST team regarding educational opportunities for all tracked youth, including but not limited to alternative schools, vocational education programs:

- High School Regents requirements, credits required, PSAT, transfers, safety/travel hardship transfer, suspension hearings, GED program (types and availability of GED programs, English and bilingual, GED testing. Special Education needs (CSE evaluations, IEP diplomas, and appropriate placements.

¨ Conduct home based sessions at times that are convenient to JJI families’ schedules.

¨ Requests attendance records, report cards, and immunization records when needed for all the youth on our caseload, including siblings and youths listed on case address.

¨ Attend ACS YD Education committee meetings and report back to JJI programs, provide on-going training to JJI team and parents on NYC Department of Education, new initiative on Special Education and the rights of students and parents

¨ Coordination and development of a network of community partners consistent with the MST treatment model for after school and educational/vocational resources and opportunities for youth.

¨ Develop and maintain a monthly tracking system of youth education placement and progress related to attendance and performance and provide necessary educational documentation for all court and probation reports. Documentation submitted weekly to therapists and team.

¨ Functions as a back up to Program Director and carries administrative responsibilities within program.

¨ Assists PD in monitoring program compliance and works closely with QI and staff in adherence to program deadlines and QI measures. Completes quarterly QI reports and case record reviews.

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QUALIFICATIONS:

¨ Master ’s Degree in Education, Social Work or related field preferred.

¨ Experience in providing community based services is essential with a focus in education services; experience in adolescent services, especially at risk or court involved youth and their families.

¨ Excellent written and verbal communication skills and good computer skills (Word and Excel).

¨ Must be organized and self-motivated; must be able to work independently and cooperatively and be able to reach out to community resources.