Casual Family School Liaison Social Worker

Avenue.io Inc.; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

The Family School Liaison Social Worker (FSLW) supports pre-kindergarten to Grade 12 students and their families by providing case planning, counselling, and group facilitation to address social, emotional, and academic needs. The role involves conducting assessments and coordinating with school staff to support student success.

Responsibilities include assessments, direct support, multidisciplinary collaboration, information provision, and advocacy to ensure inclusive practices and improved

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in social work or equivalent.
• Full Alberta College of Social Workers registration (General Practice Permit).
• Experience with child and family services and education systems.
• Knowledge of family therapy, group dynamics, and crisis intervention.
• Familiarity with community resources and local agencies.

Responsibilities

• Conduct individualized assessments in consultation with families and school staff.
• Develop action plans and monitor outcomes using individualized program plans.
• Provide counselling and group facilitation to students and families.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams and community supports.
• Advocate for student and family needs and coordinate referrals.

Skills

Advanced problem solving

Needs assessment

Mediation & conflict resolution

Communication (oral and written)

Organization & time management

Relationship building

Analytical thinking

Education

Master’s degree in social work

Full registration with Alberta College of Social Workers

Job description

The Family School Liaison Social Worker (FSLW) supports pre-kindergarten to Grade 12 students and their families by providing case planning, counselling, and group facilitation to address social, emotional, and academic needs. The role involves conducting assessments, developing individualized action plans, and collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams to ensure student success. By fostering strong connections between home and school, the position contributes to improved student outcomes, including increased grades, attendance, and reduced behavioural issues. This role is essential in creating a supportive and inclusive educational environment that promotes the well-being and development of all students.

Job Responsibilities

1. Conduct Assessments (30%)

• Conduct individualized assessments of students in consultation with parents, guardians, and school staff.
• Determine the level of service required for each case.
• Establish action plans and implement goals using Individualized Program Plans and Division assessments.
• Monitor and document the impact of supports provided.
• Provide year-end summaries and recommendations, including program placement if needed.

2. Provide Direct Support and Intervention (25%)

• Offer counseling and group facilitation to students and their families.
• Address issues impacting the child's development and academic success.
• Implement intervention strategies to support social, emotional, and academic needs.
• Conduct home visits to support family connection to school and student success.

3. Participate in Multi-Disciplinary Teams (20%)

• Collaborate with educational support teams to assist students and their families.
• Liaise with therapeutic specialists, Inclusive Education staff, and community support.
• Facilitate increased positive contact, communication, and understanding of student needs.
• Participate in staff and team meetings, providing input into strategic planning, goals, and objectives.

4. Provide Information and Consultation (15%)

• Offer social services, information, and referrals to students, families, and schools.
• Provide crisis intervention and prevention, involving relevant agencies as needed.
• Develop, organize, implement, promote, and facilitate Family Oriented Programs on various topics.
• Maintain technical knowledge and professional registration through ongoing activities.

5. Advocate for Student and Family Needs (10%)

• Advocate for client services when accessibility issues arise.
• Engage clients and provide interim support while waiting for ongoing service providers.
• Make referrals to appropriate agencies based on assessments.
• Respond creatively to competing demands between school authority and families.

Knowledge, Skills, and Competencies

Knowledge:

• Degree or Master’s Degree in social work, plus three years of directly related experience.
• Full registration with the Alberta College of Social Workers (General Practice Permit).
• Understanding various community agencies and early childhood and adolescent development.
• Knowledge of requirements for special needs students, current parenting practices, individual and family therapy, and group dynamics.
• Familiarity with emotional/behavioural disorders, developmental delays, suicide prevention, adolescent relationships, special needs education, family violence, poverty, addictions, bereavement, and cultural diversity.
• Awareness of local community resources, education, and social services.
• General knowledge of the Division’s operations and business and general understanding of the Division’s mission and vision in a faith-based environment.
• Knowledge of records management principles, the Protection of Privacy Act (POPA), and the Access to Information Act (ATIA).
• Knowledge of workplace safety and awareness of Occupational Health and Safety regulations.
• Knowledge and alignment with the Division's administrative procedures.

Skills:

• Advanced problem-solving and needs assessment skills.
• Strong mediation, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Ability to manage crises efficiently and effectively.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in establishing rapport and developing positive working relationships.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to anticipate issues and concerns.

Competencies:

• Ability to respond creatively to competing demands and changing environments.
• Act with integrity, seek personal growth opportunities, and develop a vision of leadership based on core values and principles.
• Build emotional resilience, seek feedback, and develop soft skills to impact others' performance and foster a positive collaborative environment.
• Develop effective, cooperative relationships, actively listen to diverse viewpoints, and treat people fairly and respectfully to create a supportive and inclusive work environment.