School Social Worker

Choice Schools Associates Grand Rapids, Michigan, United States

About Our Academy

At New Branches Charter Academy (NBCA), our mission is to provide a positive academic and social learning environment for all students. NCBA is a destination school, located on a 12 acre campus that is known for providing environmentally focused learning experiences and self‑sustaining practices through dedication to academic excellence. NBCA knows that teachers are the heart of the school and are surrounded by a support system that is committed to the success of every child.

Qualities of a Successful Candidate:

• A comfortability in an outdoor setting and a knack for creativity and innovation, incorporating hands‑on activities, experiential learning, and interactive teaching methods to make environmental/outdoor learning engaging and impactful.
• An unwavering belief that all children regardless of their background can learn and exceed at high levels.
• A strong desire to achieve outstanding results in the pursuit of excellence for students.
• Strong interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with children, parents and other staff members. They should be able to work collaboratively, promoting a harmonious learning environment.

About the role

To promote understanding of the emotional and social development of children and the influences of family, community, and cultural differences on student success, along with the implementation of effective intervention strategies. This position will support and uphold the mission and vision of the environmental academy.

What you’ll do

Assessments and Evaluation:

• Conducts assessments and evaluations in accordance with family and student rights.
• Uses student, family, and school assessment results to identify needs affecting student learning.
• Supports the creation and implementation of Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and Positive Behavior Support Plans (PBSP).

Counseling and Psycho‑Social Support:

• Provides social work services to students.
• Conducts psycho‑social assessment and recommendations and interventions within school setting.

Student Support and Referrals:

• Makes referrals to public or private agencies with appropriate follow‑up.
• Serves as a liaison between school, family, and community resources.

Case Conferences and

Collaboration:

• Participates in the Child Study Process and IEP process as required.
• Collaborates with other pupil personnel workers, school personnel, and community agencies in case conferences.

Personal and Emotional Well‑being:

• Works with students individually to address personal problems related to home, family, health, and emotional adjustment.

Policy Development and Education Programs:

• Participates in the development of instructional policies and regulations.

Professional Development and Ethics:

• Conforms to the National Association of Social Work (NASW) Code of Ethics and Standards for School Social Work practice.
• Engages in appropriate professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills.

Record Keeping and Facilities:

• Maintains and administers the student records system in compliance with regulations and confidentiality.
• Assumes responsibility for the orderliness and safe use of instructional facilities and equipment.

Time Management and Responsibilities:

• Organizes time, resources, energy, and workload to fulfill responsibilities effectively.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Provides in‑service training for staff in guidance programs, student conflict resolution, and self‑awareness programs.
• Participates in appropriate professional development activities to improve knowledge and skills.
• Assumes other responsibilities assigned by the Principal.

Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in Social Work (required)
• State of Michigan…