K-1 Small Group Facilitator – SEL Pilot

Who We Are
Working directly in 41 schools in the City of Richmond and Henrico’s east end,
Communities In Schools of Richmond builds relationships that empower students to stay in school and achieve in life.

We believe that when basic needs are met, students can concentrate on what’s important – learning. The work has evolved over a 40-year process and is validated by longitudinal research that supports the model as an evidence-based practice that both lowers drop-out rates and improves graduation rates.

Position Overview: Communities In Schools of Richmond (CIS) is launching a pilot initiative to provide targeted social-emotional learning (SEL) support to kindergarten and first-grade students. We are seeking a compassionate and skilled Small Group Facilitator to lead this effort. The Facilitator will deliver evidence-based SEL curriculum in small groups, support classroom culture, and work closely with Site Coordinators, teachers, and families to build foundational skills that help K-1 students thrive both academically and emotionally.

Start Date:

August 2026

Key Responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities:
Direct Student Support
Deliver whole-class SEL lessons in K–1 classrooms at the start of the school year
Facilitate weekly small-group sessions (4–6 students per group) using the DESSA-based curriculum (Devereaux Student Strengths Assessment)
Use play-based, experiential strategies to support SEL skill-building
Build trusting relationships with students while modeling positive social behaviors
Assessment & Progress Monitoring
Conduct student observations and administer the DESSA Track student growth in SEL competencies and report outcomes in collaboration with school staff
Maintain detailed records of attendance, participation, and progress

Collaboration & Communication
Partner with Site Coordinators and school staff to align support strategies
Communicate regularly with classroom teachers to reinforce SEL goals
Engage families with updates, resources, and opportunities to grow alongside their children
Participate in school meetings, team planning sessions, and CIS trainings

Required Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, psychology, social work, or related field experience working with young children and families (preferably in a school or group setting)
Knowledge of child development and social-emotional learning principles
Ability to build rapport with students, guardians and manage group dynamics
Required Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, psychology, social work, or related field experience working with young children and families (preferably in a school or group setting)
Knowledge of child development and social-emotional learning principles
Ability to build rapport with students, guardians and manage group dynamics
Preferred:
Master’s degree in human services, social work, or related field or equivalent experience
Familiarity with the DESSA or other SEL assessment tools
Background in trauma-informed practices or restorative approaches
Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

Skills & Attributes:
Energetic, warm, and patient presence
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Highly organized with attention to detail and follow-through
Committed to equity and inclusion
Flexible, creative, and responsive to student needs

$54,000 / year

Compensation & Benefits:

Competitive salary commensurate with experience. Health, dental, and vision insurance options
403(B) match. Paid time off and holidays aligned with the school calendar. Professional development and training opportunities

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