School Social Worker

Grand Peak Academy (GPA) is a kindergarten-eighth grade classical, Core Knowledge public charter school committed to providing excellent educational opportunities to students in Northeast Colorado Springs. GPA offers a holistic classical approach to education that implements rigorous academic instruction in conjunction with an active classroom. Our model challenges students to think critically and take active roles in their classrooms and communities. This results in higher achievement and greater engagement in school. Our school gives students the academic and character-building skills they need as learners and leaders.

Purpose statement

The School Social Worker supports students' academic success, social-emotional development, and overall well-being by addressing barriers to learning. Working collaboratively with educators, families, and community agencies, the School Social Worker provides prevention, intervention, and support services that promote a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environment.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

Student Support

• Provide individual and group counseling to students addressing social, emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs

• Conduct social-emotional and behavioral assessments and assist in developing intervention plans

• Support students experiencing crises, trauma, grief, or significant life changes

• Participate in the development and implementation of IEPs, 504 plans, and behavior intervention plans as appropriate

Family & Community Collaboration

• Serve as a liaison between home, school, and community resources

• Provide families with referrals to community agencies and support services

• Collaborate with families to strengthen engagement and address attendance, behavior, or social-emotional concerns

School Collaboration

• Consult with teachers, administrators, and support staff regarding student needs and effective interventions

• Support positive school climate initiatives, social-emotional learning programs, and restorative practices

• Participate in multidisciplinary teams (MTSS, student support teams, crisis teams, etc.)

Prevention & Advocacy

• Promote equity and advocate for students facing social, economic, or emotional challenges

• Assist with attendance interventions and truancy prevention

• Provide staff training on trauma-informed practices, mental health awareness, and student supports

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate, confidential records in accordance with district, state, and federal regulations

• Complete required reports and documentation in a timely manner

• Adhere to ethical standards and professional guidelines for school social work

Qualifications

• Bachelors Degree or higher in Social Work from an accredited program

• State licensure or certification as a School Social Worker (or eligibility for licensure)

• Knowledge of child development, mental health, and educational systems

• Strong collaboration, communication, and organizational skills

• Successfully complete background check

• Experience working with young children, particularly in an educational setting, is highly desirable.

• Interpersonal skills that allow for successful work with adults and children.

• Ability to collaborate as part of a team.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, highly interactive environment

Pay: Salary with Benefits

Mandatory Background Checks: In alignment with our commitment to student safety, all candidates are required to undergo a comprehensive background check, which includes reviewing criminal records and may require fingerprinting. Please be aware that certain findings in the background check may disqualify a candidate from employment in a school setting. These may include, but are not limited to:

• Convictions for violent crimes, such as assault or domestic violence.
• Convictions for offenses against children, including abuse or endangerment.
• Drug-related offenses, particularly those involving the distribution or trafficking of controlled substances.
• Certain felony convictions, depending on their nature and recency.
• History of certain misdemeanors that may raise concerns about a candidate's suitability for working in an educational environment. Submission of this application signifies your consent to this process and understanding of these criteria.

Verification of Qualifications: You will be asked to provide verifiable proof for roles that demand specific qualifications or certifications (such as teaching credentials). We also conduct reference checks to validate your professional history and qualifications.

Adherence to Colorado Education Laws: Our recruitment process strictly follows the guidelines and regulations set forth by the Colorado Department of Education. We expect all applicants to be familiar with and adhere to these standards.

This employer utilizes E-Verify:

E-Verify Participation Poster - https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/EVerifyParticipationPoster.pdf - https://www.e-verify.gov/sites/default/files/everify/posters/EVerifyParticipationPoster.pdf