Family Engagement Specialist

Working Title:

Family Engagement Specialist

State Role

Title:

Education Support Specialist III

Position Type:
Full-time Staff (Classified)

Position Status:
Full-Time

FLSA Status:
Non-Exempt:
Eligible for Overtime

College/Division:
College of Health and Behavioral Studies

Department: 540970 - SVMEP  Main Award

Pay Band: 4

Pay Rate:
Maximum Starting

Specify Range or Amount: $45,739

Is this a JMU only position? No

Is this a grant-funded position? Yes. This is a grant-funded position and is contingent upon continued funding.

Is this a Conflict of Interest designated position? No

Beginning Review Date: 07/25/2026

At James Madison University (JMU), we’re more than just a publicly funded institution — we’re a vibrant, welcoming community located on a stunning campus where innovation, collaboration, and personal growth thrive. Our mission is to prepare students for a bright future, and we believe that starts with supporting the people who make it all possible: our employees.

• Generous Leave:
  Enjoy paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, community service leave, and 19 paid holidays annually.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage:
  Access high-quality health insurance options that fit your needs.
• Retirement Options:
  Plan for your future with retirement benefits through the Virginia Retirement System.
• Employee Well-Being:
  Our Balanced Dukes program promotes wellness and work-life integration through resources, events, and support.
• Tuition Waiver Program:
  Advance your education with our tuition waiver program for undergraduate and graduate courses taken at JMU.

At JMU, we believe in Being the Change — and that starts with creating an environment where you can grow, contribute meaningfully, and feel supported every step of the way.

Discover what makes JMU a great place to work: bit.ly/JMUEmployment

The Shenandoah Valley Migrant Education Program (SVMEP) is hiring for a full-time Family Engagement Specialist (FES). SVMEP provides quality academic support services and advocacy to newly arrived migrant families in the community. SVMEP staff visit the families in their homes and migrant camps to assess their needs and aid the students and young adults in achieving their educational goals SVMEP is one of many programs and clinics within the Institute for Innovation in Health and Human Services (IIHHS).

IIHHS is a forward-thinking and dynamic organization that strives to cultivate a shared sense of purpose in building healthier and safer communities where all individuals can thrive and flourish. IIHHS is housed within JMU’s College of Health and Behavioral Studies (CHBS).

This position will work out of The Health Place, an office space located in Stanley, VA in Page County.

CHBS is committed to shaping a forward-thinking and dynamic environment by refining policies, practices, and processes that strengthen our community, drive real-world advancement, and maintain spaces conducive to individual and collective growth. Through education, scholarship, and service, individuals are inspired to make responsible and meaningful contributions to the college, campus, local community, and broader world. Join us in fostering collaboration and innovation as we grow a dynamic college that embodies an atmosphere of belonging, champions excellence, and shares a sense of purpose.

James Madison University is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a thriving environment where a wide range of perspectives are embraced, and fairness is upheld.

• Manage a caseload of approximately 100–120 migrant students and families, providing ongoing family engagement, case management, and individualized support services.
• Conduct family intake and onboarding, including completion of enrollment and emergency documentation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with families through regular communication, home visits, and ongoing support.
• Assess family and student needs and connect families to educational, healthcare, and community resources.
• Monitor student academic progress, attendance, and overall well-being through collaboration with families and school personnel.
• Advocate for students and…