About the role

To promote understanding of the emotional and social development of children and the influences of family, community, and cultural differences on student success, along with the implementation of effective intervention strategies. This position will support and uphold the mission and vision of the environmental academy.

What you'll do

Assessments and Evaluation:

• Conducts assessments and evaluations in accordance with family and student rights.
• Uses student, family, and school assessment results to identify needs affecting student learning.
• Supports the creation and implementation of Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA) and Positive Behavior Support Plans (PBSP).

Counseling and Psycho-Social Support:

• Provides social work services to students.
• Conducts psycho-social assessment and recommendations and interventions within school setting. 

Student Support and Referrals:

• Makes referrals to public or private agencies with appropriate follow-up.
• Serves as a liaison between school, family, and community resources.

Case Conferences and Collaboration:

• Participates in the Child Study Process and IEP process as required.
• Collaborates with other pupil personnel workers, school personnel, and community agencies in case conferences.

Personal and Emotional Well-being:

• Works with students individually to address personal problems related to home, family, health, and emotional adjustment.

Policy Development and Education Programs:

• Participates in the development of instructional policies and regulations.

Professional Development and Ethics:

• Conforms to the National Association of Social Work (NASW) Code of Ethics and Standards for School Social Work practice.
• Engages in appropriate professional development activities to enhance knowledge and skills.

Record Keeping and Facilities:

• Maintains and administers the student records system in compliance with regulations and confidentiality.
• Assumes responsibility for the orderliness and safe use of instructional facilities and equipment.

Time Management and Responsibilities:

• Organizes time, resources, energy, and workload to fulfill responsibilities effectively.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Provides in-service training for staff in guidance programs, student conflict resolution, and self-awareness programs.
• Participates in appropriate professional development activities to improve knowledge and skills.
• Assumes other responsibilities assigned by the Principal.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Master’s Degree in Social Work (required)  
• State of Michigan Certification as a School Social Worker (required) 
• Valid social worker license (LLMSW or LMSW) issued by the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) (required) 

Desired Requirements:

• Knowledge of and ability to follow and implement the Individualized (“IEP”) process.
• Knowledge of and skills working with students from all backgrounds.
• Demonstrated competence in all areas of focus.
• Social work case reporting and writing skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to counsel students, parents, and staff, individually and in groups.
• Excellent verbal and written expression using proper grammar and vocabulary.

About Choice Schools Associates

New Branches Charter Academy is part of the Choice Schools Community. As a comprehensive education service provider, Choice Schools offers a student-centered approach to tailored school operations support. Much like a superintendent's office, Choice Schools provides invaluable assistance in various crucial areas, including instruction, professional development, curriculum, human resources, finance, compliance, communications, and enrollment. By being a part of the Choice Schools Environmental Model, New Branches is a vibrant community of learning, comprised of multiple other outstanding environmental schools within the state. The Environmental Model will provide you with the support and collaboration of a large district while serving at a tight-knit community school in your area.