School Social Worker

About Us: Cunningham Children’s Home is an exemplary child welfare and educational services agency providing caring support and therapeutic intervention to more than 953 youth and families each year through comprehensive programs including residential treatment, special education and community-based services. The Gerber Education Program at Cunningham Children’s Home provides specialized educational services to young people in our Residential Treatment Program. We are committed to supporting the social, emotional, and academic growth of our students in a safe and therapeutic environment.

Position Summary: The School Social Worker is responsible for delivering high-quality clinical services that enhance the social and academic functioning of students. This role supports students in alignment with Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) standards and works collaboratively with the broader treatment team.

• Provide individual and group counseling to students with emotional and behavioral needs.
• Assess, monitor, and support students’ social and emotional growth.
• Collaborate with teachers, therapists, and residential staff to implement individualized interventions.
• Maintain thorough, accurate documentation of clinical services.
• Uphold confidentiality and adhere to all regulatory and program standards.
• Maintain TCI certification and participate in ongoing professional development.

• Master’s in Social Work (MSW) required.
• Type 73 School Certificate required.
• LCSW preferred due to clinical needs.
• Valid Illinois Driver’s License required; reliable access to a motor vehicle for transporting youth.
• Minimum of three years working with students with emotional/behavioral disabilities, preferably in a residential treatment center school or therapeutic day school.

• Competitive salary based on education and experience.
• Relocation assistance up to $2,500.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with up to 6% company match.
• Life insurance.
• Paid time off.
• Employee assistance program.
• Flexible spending account.
• Referral program.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Eligible for Public Student Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).

All Cunningham employees are subject to pre-employment, random, and for-cause drug testing.

Thorough criminal background checks are conducted on all employees.

If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families and thrive in a collaborative, supportive environment, we encourage you to apply!

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.