Temporary Social Worker

School Social Worker

Provides supportive, diagnostic and consultative service to students, teachers, administration and parents/guardians/families of students with social, emotional and academic difficulties. Evaluates students to determine their need for school social work or other services. Completes and presents a written evaluation report to parents/guardians and the local educational agency within required timelines. Assists in the development and implementation of measurable TEP goals and objectives.

Participates in TEPT, MET and other meetings as appropriate. Establishes and maintains appropriate records, reports, and procedures including, but not limited to, behavioral data and student progress on TEP goals/objectives. Communicates with mental health/child services or other agencies to coordinate services. Uses various software packages for communication and documentation purposes. Conducts parent/teacher conferences as appropriate. Makes referrals for students and parents to appropriate resources with the school or community.

Participates in Child Study, Eligibility and Special Education related meeting. Serves as a resource to parents about the needs of students and consults with parents as needed. Informs teachers and parents of available special services for students. Adheres to laws and procedures involving child abuse/neglect. Maintains an advocacy role to assure that the students' educational, social, emotional and materials needs are met according to established laws, rules, and regulation.

Provides crisis intervention services as appropriate and as requested by administrative personnel assigned to schools. Develops effective intervention strategies for students based on knowledge and understanding of student's behavior and learning styles. Conducts functional behavioral assessments and creates behavioral intervention plans to address student needs and target behaviors. Counsels individual students regarding issues, which interfere with adjustment and/or performance within the educational setting.

Provides casework services to students and families. Exhibits punctuality. Maintains confidentiality in all student and professional matters, and works in a professional and cooperative manner with others to achieve duties and responsibilities. Follows the dress code as stated in the employee manual. School activities - the School Social Worker is required to attend and/or participate in such other activities as directed by the Superintendent, Assistant Superintendent and/or Director of Special Education such as: faculty meetings (before or after school hours), open houses, commencement exercises, chaperone student activities, provide guidance for students, participate on faculty committees, study and help resolve school problems, and participate in the preparation of courses of study -- these activities demonstrate valuable support for Youth Vision Solutions.

Acts in accordance with the directives and assignments given by the Curriculum Director. Has read and agreed to abide by the policies, directives, and guidelines as stated in all Covenant House Academies manuals pertinent to the position.

Essential

Skills and Abilities:

Ability to understand the awareness of and sensitivity to the needs of homeless and at-risk youth that Youth Vision Solutions serves. Knowledge of current state law/regulations regarding high school proficiency standards. Ability to demonstrate effective liaison relationships with parents, schools, and agencies. Leadership skills in working with individuals and groups (i.e. initiating individual or group discussion, listening, clarifying and facilitating interactions and sharing of ideas).

Ability to manage caseload and develop an effective schedule which allows for direct service to students and families, collaboration with staff, parent/community services and program management.

Qualifications:

Master's Degree in Social Work (LMSW or LLMSW). Must meet Michigan Department of Education requirements for full/temporary approval as a School Social Worker and licensing from the Department of Community Health.