Student and Family Advocate JobID: 1364
+ Position Type:
Support Staff/ Student and Family Resource Advocate
+ Date Posted:
10/18/2024
+ Location:
Edwards Elementary
+ Closing Date:
11/03/2024
Welcome to Ames Community School District (CSD), where we are more than just a workplace – we are a community committed to fostering growth, recognition, and inclusivity. As an employee at Ames CSD, you will not only benefit from competitive compensation and a range of employee discount opportunities, but you will also have the chance to be part of an organization that values diversity and inclusion. Our commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities, including new and renovated spaces, ensures that you will have the resources you need to excel in your role. Join us at Ames CSD, where your talents are recognized, and you have the opportunity to grow in a supportive and dynamic community.Edwards Elementary is seeking a Student and Family Advocate for the remainder of the 2024-25 school year. This position is from October 2024-June 2025.SummaryUnder the supervision of school administrators, the Student and Family Advocate, is designed to support students in achieving the following outcomes: (1) increased school attendance and (2) positive school connectedness. The Student and Family Advocate is utilized to provide individual student support, promote engagement and act as a liaison between school, parents and community resources in order to enhance student learning, promote overall efficiency of the school system, and maximize education opportunities for each child.Work Schedule: Monday-Friday; 200 day work calendar.
Responsibilities/Essential Functions:
General Responsibilities:
+ Works with principal and school staff and partner agencies to identify students/families in need of increased school-based support.
+ Coordinates and monitors identified student support plans, including coordinating services and serving as a liaison among school personnel, community-based agencies/providers and the student/family.
+ Communicates with parents about student mental health concerns, academic progress, behavior and/or attendance.
+ Obtains proper release of information upon entry into the community or school services.
+ Connects the student and family with appropriate resources in the school and in the community.
+ Communicates regularly with school staff (teachers, administrators, and other school personnel) involved with students to share information, problem-solve and/or modify student interventions as needed.
+ Provides support to parent/guardian(s) to overcome barriers such as accessing services, assisting with scheduling appointments, transporting students to appointments and completing necessary paperwork.
+ Collects, tracks, and reports required information on students and services delivered.
+ Participates in district professional development, Student and Family Advocate team meetings and individual supervision.
+ Develops and supports initiatives to increase cultural competence and inclusion in Ames Schools.
Parent/Family Engagement:
+ Provides new families with an orientation and tour of the school.
+ Assists new families in completing free/reduced lunch paperwork.
+ Provides resources for food, childcare, clothing, housing, and other basic needs.
+ Initiates Integration and Reintegration meetings for students arriving mid-year, returning from out of home placement for mental health or substance abuse treatment, or transitioning within foster care.
+ Provides information and clarification to parents on district policies and procedures.
Mental Health:
+ Supports teachers in developing Tier 1 and Tier 2 interventions as they relate to mental health.
+ Assembles and participates in the Crisis Response Team at the appropriate school.
+ Provides parents access to mental health resources.
+ Develops a therapeutic space for a student to utilize when dealing with mental health concerns (ie. suicidal ideation, anxiety etc.)
+ Provides skill building and coping skills/development for students struggling with mental health.
+ Provides referrals to mental health services to families/parents regarding mental health services and assist with the necessary paperwork.
+ Facilitates scheduling appointments with counselors.
+ Consults with teachers about specific students and potential impact on students learning and behavior.
Attendance and Chronic Absenteeism:
+ Initiates home visits for students regularly missing school.
+ Develops and monitors Absenteeism Prevention Plans for students exhibiting attendance issues.
+ Communicates regularly with parents of students experiencing attendance issues.
+ Communicates with Story County Attorney’s Office regarding truancy charges.
+ Attends truancy court and other court-appointed meetings as school representatives.
Collaboration:
+ Participates in community meetings, efforts, and coalitions.
+ Communicates with other District Student and Family Advocates to develop transition plans for students identified on the EIS Roster.
+ Develops protocols and procedures for Integration/Reintegration Meetings for students arriving mid-year, returning from out of home placement for mental health or substance abuse treatment, or transitioning within foster care. Communicate with agency providers re: transition planning.
+ Communicates with District Homeless Liaison regarding supports for students who are identified on the homeless roster.
+ Coordinate regularly with DHS and other community partners regarding students involved and how to provide support at school.
Required Qualifications:
+ Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or related field and two years of experience.
+ Mandatory Reporter – within one month of hire.
The successful candidate will exhibit:
+ Ability to interact positively and professionally with individuals from diverse backgrounds
+ High degree of approachability and accessibility
+ Initiative to identify and address potential concerns involving students and
+ Evidence of excellent interpersonal problem-solving and de-escalation techniques
+ Ability to work independently without direct supervision
+ Flexibility and adaptability
+ Ability to work cooperatively and communicate effectively with the entire school community
+ Positive, professional demeanor
+ Sound judgment and interpersonal problem-solving ability
+ Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems in an efficient and timely manner
+ Evidence of successful previous experience with secondary students
Salary: $51,500; pro-rated for the school yearChoosing the Ames Community School District isn’t just about a job – it’s about becoming part of a vibrant and close-knit community, nestled in the heart of Iowa. With its small-town charm and big-city amenities, Ames offers a unique blend of contentment and excitement. As a college town, opportunities to engage and get involved abound, whether it’s through cultural events, educational pursuits, or community initiatives. At Ames, you’re not just joining a workplace; you’re becoming a valued member of a community driven by collaboration, growth, and a shared commitment to excellence. Come be a part of Ames, where both your professional and personal aspirations can thrive.Candidates, please follow the link to apply online: https://www.applitrack.com/amesk12/onlineapp/JobPostings/view.asp?FromAdmin=true&AppliTrackJobId=1364Ames CSD is an E-Verify employer.To learn more about the Ames Community School District, visit our websites:
+ District Website (http://www.ames.k12.ia.us/)
+ Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AmesCommunitySchoolDistrict/)
+ YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/user/OfficialACSD)
+ Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/acsdnews/)
+ Amazing Magazine (http://www.ames.k12.ia.us/district/departments/school-community-media-relations/amazing-magazine/)
