Student Support Specialist; Pre-Collegiate Programs

Student Support Specialist (Various Pre-Collegiate Programs)-1

The Student Support Specialist serves as the primary point of contact for Residence Advisors, Head Residence Advisors, Instructors, and Onsite Program Coordinators regarding students' social-emotional well-being, behavioral concerns, and the unique needs of gifted learners. This individual leads efforts to address and mediate student issues as they arise, implementing appropriate interventions and support strategies tailored to each student's needs. Additionally, the Student Support Specialist provides guidance and support to Residence Advisors in managing students' social and emotional challenges.

Before the start of the program, the Specialist will provide key resources—including a policies and procedures document, referral plan, and other materials—to ensure consistent and effective management of student needs. The Specialist will also facilitate related training sessions during both Staff and Instructor Orientations. This is a pool position that will only be accessed if needed. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

We will not sponsor applicants for work visas for this position.

• Bachelor's Degree in a field related to social work such as psychology, sociology, or equivalent.
• Experience working with middle- and/or high-school students.
• Demonstrated ability to work and multitask effectively in a complex and fast-paced setting.

• Experience working with gifted and high-ability students.
• State-issued certification or licensure as a social worker, counselor, or psychologist.

• All hourly employees are subject to the limitations of the Virginia Manpower Control Program and total hours worked may not exceed, on average, 29 hours per week, over the course of a twelve-month period beginning May 1 each year.
• This is a non-exempt position, eligible to receive overtime in accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act. This position may be subject to overtime during high peak times, etc. as directed and approved by the supervisor.
• This is a term-limited position, subject to the continued availability of funding.

80% - Administration, Supervision, Mediation, & Management:

• Work with the Director prior to the program to develop policies, procedures, and plans to cultivate a rewarding experience for campers.
• Serve as the lead for the social and emotional needs of campers, mediate behavioral issues, and partner with stakeholders for resolutions, as needed.
• Support Residence-Life Advisors' socio-emotional issues as needed.
• Mentor groups of students throughout the process.
• Coordinate appropriate interventions based on student needs.
• Develop and lead Orientation sessions for staff related to child development, student engagement, and behavior management.
• Collaborate with families/teachers/leadership positions for student success.
• As a member of the Leadership Team, model, facilitate, and purposefully influence the culture to cultivate a positive camp climate.

15% - Communication:

• Act as a liaison between campers and staff.
• Respond to any/all issues of concern with campers by promptly communicating with the appropriate chain of command.
• Readily communicate with parents regarding the camper's unique needs and develop necessary action plans.
• Advise and assist Residence Advisors and Onsite Program Coordinators to promote the positive behaviors of campers.

5% - Event Coordination:

• Support special events as needed.
• Assist with other duties as assigned by WM Staff.

Salary: $30 per hour