JIC Education Program Specialist Job Columbus area,Ohio USA,Education / Teaching

POSITION SUMMARY:

The Education and Program Specialist work within the Juvenile Intervention Center (JIC) and is responsible for developing, implementing, managing and evaluating JIC education and programming for youth in custody. Under the direction of the Program Manager, the Specialist takes the lead in developing, implementing, coordinating, managing, monitoring, and continuously improving JIC education and programming, including internal and external partners, monitoring participation and service delivery, evaluating effectiveness and outcomes, identifying gaps, and advancing opportunities for improvement.

Education and programming are the primary specialty of the position; however, direct interaction, supervision, engagement, and service delivery with youth are normal and essential functions of the role. The specialist works closely with educators, JIC staff, case managers, mental health professionals, school districts, and community partners to provide a structured, safe, and supportive environment that promotes academic growth, personal development, habilitation, and successful reentry.

The employee may be assigned to provide operational support in any unit, pod, department, or functional area within the JIC based upon the operational, safety, and staffing needs of the Center and consistent with the responsibilities, training, and qualifications of the position. Assignment to Education and Programming does not exempt employee from Center-wide responsibilities related to youth supervision, direct services, programming, safety, or operational support.

ESSENTIAL

FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Develop, implement, coordinate, manage, and evaluate JIC educational and youth programming initiatives that address applicable standards and the individual needs of youth, including tutoring, library access, graduate/GED pathways, post-secondary opportunities, workforce readiness, and transitional services. Coordinate educational services provided by Columbus City Schools and other educational partners to promote continuity, access, and alignment with Center operations.

Lead the coordination of individualized educational activities, assignments, and learning opportunities that address the diverse academic needs, abilities, and learning levels of youth, and collaborate with teachers and special education professionals to support implementation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), 504 Plans, other required accommodations, and appropriate educational access and supports for youth with disabilities.

Serve as a primary JIC point of contact with Columbus City Schools and other school districts to support educational continuity for youth entering, residing in, and transitioning from the Center.

Collaborate with case managers, case workers, mental health professionals, FACCES, JCES, and other staff providing services to justice involved youth to develop and coordinate personalized educational and transition plans and improve continuity of services following release from the Center.

Identify, develop, and coordinate partnerships with community organizations, educational agencies, and outside service providers to expand educational, vocational, life-skills, social emotional learning, workforce-readiness, recreational, and enrichment opportunities for youth.

Coordinate with teachers and educational staff to ensure materials, resources, technology, classroom needs, and asynchronous or alternative assignments are available to support effective instruction and youth who are unable to participate in regular classroom instruction. Coordinate Title I educational supplies, materials, resources, and other designated youth program resources to ensure accurate and timely availability and distribution.

Monitor and evaluate the quality, participation, delivery, and outcomes of educational and programming services with applicable laws, regulations, state standards, Center policies, and special education requirements; identify gaps, barriers, and opportunities for improvement; and maintain accurate educational and program records, including attendance, participation, assignments, absences, service delivery, and other required documentation. Montior student attendance and coordinate the appropriate documentation and disposition of absences in accordance with educational and Center policies.

Prepare information and reports for the Program Manager, Superintendent and others as directed.

Develop, organize, coordinate and manage educational,…