Student and Family Advocate JobID: 1146

　　Position Type:

　　Support Staff/ Student and Family Resource Advocate

　　Date Posted:

　　1/23/2024

　　Location:

　　District Wide

　　Welcome to Ames Community School District (CSD), where we are more than just a workplace – we are a community committed to fostering growth, recognition, and inclusivity. As an employee at Ames CSD, you will not only benefit from competitive compensation and a range of employee discount opportunities, but you will also have the chance to be part of an organization that values diversity and inclusion. Our commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities, including new and renovated spaces, ensures that you will have the resources you need to excel in your role. Moreover, the "Grow Your Own" initiative through Purple Pathways highlights our dedication to professional development and advancement within the organization. Join us at Ames CSD, where your talents are recognized, and you have the opportunity to grow in a supportive and dynamic community.Ames CSD is seeking a Student and Family Advocate for Mitchell Elementary and Ames Middle School for the 2023-2024 school year.

　　SummaryUnder the supervision of school administrators, the Student and Family Advocate, is designed to support students in achieving the following outcomes: (1) provide mental health crisis intervention. (2) identify and address student mental health needs and enhance prosocial behaviors, (3) increased school attendance and (4) positive school connectedness. The Student and Family Advocate is utilized to provide individual student support, promote engagement and act as a liaison between school, parents and community resources in order to enhance student learning, promote overall efficiency of the school system, and maximize education opportunities to each child.

　　Responsibilities/Essential Functions:

　　General Responsibilities:

　　Works with school staff (Counselors, Teachers, etc.) and partner agencies to identify students/families in need of increased school-based support.

　　Coordinates and monitors identified student support plans, including coordinating services and serving as a liaison among school personnel, community-based agencies/providers and the student/family.

　　Communicates with parents about student mental health concerns, academic progress, behavior and/or attendance.

　　Obtains proper release of information upon entry into the community or school services.

　　Connects the student and family with appropriate resources in the school and in the community.

　　Communicates regularly with school staff (teachers, administrators, and other school personnel) involved with students to share information, problem-solve and/or modify student interventions as needed.

　　Provides support to parent/guardian(s) to overcome barriers such as accessing services, assisting with scheduling appointments, transporting students to appointments and completing necessary paperwork.

　　Collects, tracks, and reports required information on students and services delivered.

　　Participates in district professional development, Student and Family Advocate team meetings, and individual supervision.

　　Develops and supports initiatives to increase cultural competence and inclusion in Ames Schools.

　　Creates a sense of belonging and welcoming environment for all students, families, and staff.

　　Attends work on a consistent and punctual basis.

　　Parent/Family Engagement:

　　Provides new families with an orientation and tour of the school.

　　Assists new families in completing free/reduced lunch paperwork.

　　Provides resources for food, childcare, clothing, housing, and other basic needs.

　　Schedules follow up with new families 2-3 weeks after initial contact.

　　Initiates Integration and Reintegration meetings for students arriving mid-year, returning from out of home placement for mental health or substance abuse treatment, or transitioning within foster care.

　　Provides information and clarification to parents on district policies and procedures.

　　Participates in Parent Meetings for students on caseload (EIS List).

　　Mental Health:

　　Develops and delivers Level 3 interventions for students identified through the MTSS System and on the (EIS) Early Indicator System.

　　Supports teachers in developing Tier 1 and Tier 2 interventions as they relate to mental health.

　　Assembles and participates in the Crisis Response Team at the appropriate school.

　　Identifies and assesses student risk as related to mental health needs.

　　Provides mental health information to parents at the beginning of each school year.

　　Develops a therapeutic space for a student to utilize when dealing with mental health concerns (ie. suicidal ideation, anxiety etc.)

　　Provides skill building and coping skills/development for students struggling with mental health.

　　Provides referrals to mental health services to families/parents regarding mental health services and assist with the necessary paperwork.

　　Develops and monitors Tier 3 interventions specifically for students’ mental health needs.

　　Facilitates scheduling appointments with counselors.

　　Consults with teachers about specific students, mental health diagnosis and potential impact on students learning and behavior.

　　Assists teachers in developing Tier 1 interventions related to mental health concerns.

　　Coordinates oversight for mental health training to teachers and staff.

　　Attendance and Truancy:

　　Initiates home visits for students regularly missing school.

　　Develops and monitors Truancy Intervention Plans for students exhibiting attendance issues.

　　Supports students experiencing mental health concerns that may be barriers to attending school regularly.

　　Communicates regularly with parents of students experiencing attendance issues.

　　Communicates with Story County Attorney’s Office regarding truancy charges.

　　Attends truancy court and other court-appointed meetings as school representatives.

　　Collaboration:

　　Participates in community meetings, efforts, and coalitions.

　　Communicates with other District Student and Family Resource Advocates to develop transition plans for students identified on the EIS Roster.

　　Develops protocols and procedures for Integration/Reintegration Meetings for students arriving mid-year, returning from out of home placement for mental health or substance abuse treatment, or transitioning within foster care. Communicates with agency providers re: transition planning.

　　Communicates with school staff regarding supports for students who are identified on the homeless roster.

　　Coordinates regularly with DHS and JCS regarding students involved and how to provide support at school.

　　Qualifications:

　　Bachelor's Degree in Social Work or related field and two years of experience.

　　Mandatory Reporter-within one month of hire.

　　The successful candidate will exhibit:

　　Ability to interact positively and professionally with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

　　High degree of approachability and accessibility.

　　Initiative to identify and address potential concerns involving students.

　　Evidence of excellent interpersonal problem-solving and de-escalation techniques.

　　Ability to work independently without direct supervision.

　　Flexibility and adaptability.

　　Ability to work cooperatively and communicate effectively with the entire school community.

　　Positive, professional demeanor.

　　Sound judgment and interpersonal problem-solving ability.

　　Ability to troubleshoot and solve problems in an efficient and timely manner.

　　Evidence of successful previous experience with secondary students.

　　Benefits:

　　Health/Dental/Vison Insurance

　　Life Insurance

　　Long-Term Disability Insurance

　　Paid Time Off-Paid holidays (9), personal days (2), sick leave (10 days first year), emergency leave (5)

　　IPERS Retirement

　　Compensation:$50,330 Choosing the Ames Community School District isn't just about a job – it's about becoming part of a vibrant and close-knit community, nestled in the heart of Iowa. With its small-town charm and big-city amenities, Ames offers a unique blend of contentment and excitement. As a college town, opportunities to engage and get involved abound, whether it's through cultural events, educational pursuits, or community initiatives. At Ames, you're not just joining a workplace; you're becoming a valued member of a community driven by collaboration, growth, and a shared commitment to excellence. Come be a part of Ames, where both your professional and personal aspirations can thrive. Candidates, please follow the link to apply online: https://www.applitrack.com/amesk12/OnlineApp/JobPostings/View.asp?AppliTrackJobId=1146ACSD is an E-Verify employer.To learn more about the Ames Community School District, visit our websites:

　　District Website (http://www.ames.k12.ia.us)

　　Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/AmesCommunitySchoolDistrict/)

　　Twitter

　　YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/user/OfficialACSD)

　　Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/acsdnews/)

　　Amazing Magazine (http://www.ames.k12.ia.us/district/departments/school-community-media-relations/amazing-magazine/)

　　It is the policy of the Ames Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, religion, creed, age (for employment), marital status (for programs), sexual orientation, gender identity and socioeconomic status (for programs) in its educational programs and its employment practices. There is a grievance procedure for processing complaints of discrimination. If you have questions or a grievance related to this policy please contact the Human Resources Director at the District Offices, 2005 24th St. Ames, IA 50010, (515) 268-6610.