Student Transition Advocate

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary : The Transition Advocate will provide both advocacy and transition services to Syracuse City youth referred to CCA’s Youth Services’ Transition Advocacy Program returning to school and / or community. The Transition Advocate will work with youth to provide advocacy and transition services for those referred to a Superintendent’s Hearing, and also those transitioning from a long-term absence. These absences may be due to a long-term suspension from school, a return from juvenile detention, or a return from jail, prison or juvenile placement.

Direct Supervisor : Project Director

Duties and Responsibilities :

• Assist youth referred to CCA’s Transition Advocacy Program in navigating academic, legal, social services, and medical / mental health systems.
• Inform and ensure youth and parents / guardians facing a superintendent’s disciplinary hearing are aware of their rights and responsibilities as outlined in Education Law 3214 and SCSD’s Code of Conduct.
• Provide support to youth who have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or a 504 plan.
• Participate in a Manifestation Determination Review as part of the disciplinary proceeding.
• Address underlying issues regarding a youth’s misbehavior in accordance with the SCSD Code of Conduct.
• Assist parents, youth, hearing officers, and district staff (administrators, principals and teachers) in considering restorative interventions and supports that encourage educational success.
• Provide services for the following : informal hearings, informal conferences, short-term suspensions, restorative meetings, local MDR / CSE meetings, transition meetings and family or criminal court proceedings related to school suspensions.
• Support the transition for youth who are returning to mainstream school / community following an absence due to a long-term suspension, a return from juvenile detention, or a return from jail, prison or juvenile placement.
• Conduct youth assessment through one-on-one meetings with the youth, family members and school staff and / or community supports to review pertinent records to develop an individualized Plan.
• Collaborate with school staff / community supports to advocate for and support youth success and to address any emerging or ongoing concerns.
• Follow-up to engage youth for up to 6 months following their transition back to mainstream school and / or community, track progress and provide referrals to the school district and / or other community supports to ensure a successful transition.
• Participate in ongoing professional development and training opportunities.
• Maintain accurate record keeping via case files and designated computer database.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Qualifications :

ALL APPLICANTS MUST SUBMIT COVER LETTER WITH RESUME.

CCA Website : HERE