NEW BEGINNINGS, INC.
Position Title: Educational Support Specialist
Program: Residential Services
Reports To: Director of Residential Services
Classification Non-exempt
Pay range: $20 - $22 per hour / DOE
Job Summary: Develops opportunities and supports for youth who are runaways, homeless, or living in unstable living situations to participate in educational and career preparation-related programming. Works with youth in one-on-one and small group settings to implement daily activities of New Beginnings’ educational programming, including developing curricula and individualized learning plans, teaching in accordance with experiential education principles, and engaging youth in goal-setting and reflection, with the goal of maintaining or restoring connections to formal education for youth in transition.
Essential Job Functions:
1. Works with shelter youth and staff to identify and overcome barriers to education through individualized assessment, planning/goal-setting, and instruction/skills improvement (provided virtual/online and in-person based on youth and program needs). Provides individualized support to youth from the Outreach and Transitional Living Programs through informal drop-in hours, group activities, by appointment, and via referrals.
2. Assesses student academic level and provides appropriate curriculum to ensure students achieve competencies through classroom instruction and educational activities outside the classroom – both individually and in small groups. Teaches through a variety of methods including direct instruction, hands on activities, and team teaching; tailors the program and methods for the needs of each specific student, and implements an intervention strategy for each individual.
3. Engages students in short- and long-term goal setting; helps students choose program focus in alignment with self-identified goals; supports student reflection focused on making connections between day-to-day work and long-term goals. Provides youth with guidance, counseling, and support within appropriate limits; refers youth to additional support services on an as needed basis.
4. Maintains program classroom and supplies to ensure space is clean, organized, and welcoming.
5. Obtains educational records and evaluations from previous schools as needed; obtains homework assignments and maintains contact with schools of origin for youth in the emergency shelter.
6. Communicates regularly with supervisor, other Education Specialists or tutors/program volunteers, and youth’s primary New Beginnings’ counselor or case manager to coordinate case plans and provide ongoing progress reports.
7. Coordinates with community partners who provide educational opportunities that are aligned with youth and program goals.
8. Maintains accurate records, including arranging and scheduling of program activities, youth progress notes and assessments, and documentation for required program evaluation or grant reporting.
9. Participates in community networking activities that strengthen the program’s operations, and may represent New Beginnings at meetings and events as assigned.
10. All other duties as may be assigned.
Education and Training:
Bachelor’s degree in education preferred; bachelor’s degree in a related field required. Educational certification (e.g. Educational Technician or ELL certificate) or extensive experience may be substituted for part of the educational requirement. A minimum of a year’s experience working with homeless/high risk youth or in alternative educational settings is required.
Specialized Skills:
Experience developing curriculum or lesson plans; knowledge or experience with special education and multiple intelligences; basic counseling, conflict resolution and crisis intervention skills; knowledge of community resources; group facilitation skills; ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities. Valid driver’s license and driving record which meets New Beginnings’ requirements.
Cognitive Requirements:
Good problem-solving skills and communications skills; literacy and writing skills on at least a college level; flexibility and ability to modify approach based on individual student needs; proficiency in use of a personal computer and basic office and educational software programs.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to drive agency van and supervise/participate in field trips and off-site activities.
Work Environment:
Classroom and office space; implements services at each Lewiston program location in addition to in the education program space (including third floor locations via stairs). Some flexibility in work hours is required; some time spent in community environment.