Education Specialist

Join to apply for the Education Specialist role at Children's Network of Hillsborough

This role is in an in-office setting in Hillsborough County, with responsibilities focused on ensuring educational services for youth in the care system and acting as the liaison between schools and the system of care providers.

Mission

The Children's Network of Hillsborough is committed to working with the community to protect children and preserve families.

General Purpose of Job

The purpose of the Education Specialist role is to ensure that appropriate educational services are provided and upheld for all children within the Hillsborough County system of care. This role serves as the subject matter expert and liaison between the school system and system of care providers to ensure the educational needs and requirements for all youth are upheld.

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and / or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Participate in implementation of quality management systems
• Monitor processes and participate in all Child Safety reviews per year
• Perform other activities as needed by CNHC
• Participate in specialized service provider program monitoring as needed
• Implement and maintain Quality Improvement systems including policy / procedure review for consistency and compliance with laws and agency SOC
• Maintain electronic / hard copy files of approved policies and procedures
• Stay current with Federal and State laws, rules and best practices
• Training
• Participate in certification / training necessary for job responsibilities
• Attend at least one approved conference annually
• Ensure best practices are implemented
• Identify SOC training needs and resources
• Coordinate training with Training Specialist
• Technical Assistance
• Identify technical assistance needs
• Provide technical assistance on federal and state laws, rules, and programmatic issues
• Provide programmatic expertise in locating missing children, narratives, resources, prevention, and recovery interview techniques
• Team Meetings
• Participate in Case Management Organization Team Meetings and other relevant meetings
• Provide performance reports and assessments of improvement initiatives

Role in Staffings

Working Hours

CNHC believes in work-life balance. This is an in-office position, Monday–Friday from 8 : 00am to 5 : 00pm, averaging 40 hours per week. Working hours may vary based on business needs.

Travel

Travel in and outside of Circuit 13 may be required.

Training

All employees must complete fifteen (15) hours of online or classroom training annually. If the employee is a Certified Child Welfare Professional, training hours must total twenty (20) annually.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This position does not have supervisory responsibilities.

Education and Experience

Other Qualifications

Skills and Abilities

Must have a strong foundation in educational advocacy, trauma-informed practices, and understanding of the child welfare system. Experience or understanding of various educational assessments, and special education to address learning gaps and ensure students receive appropriate academic support, including IEPs and 504 plans when necessary. A deep understanding of the foster care system is essential, as placement instability and trauma can significantly impact education. Strong communication and collaboration skills enable effective work with schools, child welfare agencies, caregivers, and legal advocates to promote educational stability. They must be adaptable problem-solvers, navigate school transitions, coordinate resources such as tutoring and mentoring, and address crises that may arise.

Pre-employment Requirements

Other Requirements

Language Skills

Must have strong language skills to effectively communicate, advocate, and support students, educators, and caregivers. Verbal communication is essential for clearly conveying information to students, teachers, caseworkers, and caregivers in an accessible and supportive manner. Written communication is important for reports, progress updates, and advocacy letters. Active listening and cultural / linguistic competency are crucial when working with diverse populations.

Mathematical Skills : Requires strong mathematical skills to analyze academic data, track student progress, and develop educational strategies. Budgeting and resource allocation skills are also essential.

Reasoning Ability : Must possess strong reasoning abilities to assess complex situations, make informed decisions, and develop effective solutions, considering trauma, placement changes, and learning challenges.

Physical Demands

The physical demands are generally moderate, including extended periods of sitting, standing, and computer use. Occasional lifting up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodations available.

Work Environment

In-office-based with moderate noise, occasional travel between locations, extended computer work, and interactions across departments. Reasonable accommodations available.

ADA : Children's Network of Hillsborough, LLC will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

EEO : Children's Network of Hillsborough, LLC does not discriminate in employment or services. Children's Network of Hillsborough, LLC is a Drug-Free Workplace.

Note : If you are currently an employee, notify leadership before applying.

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All postings are subject to change. Referrals may increase interview chances. Tampa, FL area postings reflect current opportunities.

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