Bilingual ESL & Life Skills Educator (Refugee Programs)

Bethany; Kalamazoo, Northern (MI, KY); Hybrid; USD 30,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

403(b) retirement plan with employer-m

Generous time off

Education reimbursement

Wellness program

Job summary

Bethany Christian Services in Kalamazoo, MI is seeking an Education Specialist to develop ESL classes and life-skills curricula for youth in the refugee/immigrant program. You will document progress, coordinate with local schools, and ensure educational continuity across residences.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, English/Spanish bilingualism, and commitment to 40 hours of annual training, with on-site duties including occasional nights or weekends.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Recreation Therapy, Education, or equivalent from an accredited college.
• Previous work experience in community education and/or child welfare.
• Bilingual: English and Spanish required.
• Must be able to complete the 40 hours of annual training.
• Knowledge of the U.S. public school system.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and listening skills with cross-cultural sensitivity.

Responsibilities

• Develop and facilitate ESL classes and study time activities for all youth within program.
• Effectively document youth education progress.
• Effectively communicate with residents' schools to ensure consistent educational progress.
• Develop and implement life skills curriculum in alignment with program and agency expectations.
• Maintain clear records of youth attendance and participation in class and report to the assigned Case Manager.
• Maintain communication with collateral resources as indicated by client needs and supervision.
• Provide educational materials for residents in the home to use.
• Provide and assess an English and Life Skills needs test for all newly arriving residents and at graduation.
• Conduct assessment and matching of mentors with mentees.
• Conduct case recordings in compliance with state licensing standards and DHS standards.
• Prepare and be involved in supervision with the Home Coordinator.
• Provide recommendations for treatment approaches in staff meetings and conferences.
• Attend staff meetings to ensure effective service coordination within the program.
• Stay abreast of community resources, when necessary.

Skills

Bilingual: English & Spanish

Excellent verbal & written comms

Cross-cultural sensitivity

Teamwork & interpersonal skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Human Services / Recreation Therapy / Education or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Bethany Christian Services in Kalamazoo, MI is seeking an Education Specialist to develop ESL classes and life-skills curricula for youth in the refugee/immigrant program. You will document progress, coordinate with local schools, and ensure educational continuity across residences.

The role requires a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, English/Spanish bilingualism, and commitment to 40 hours of annual training, with on-site duties including occasional nights or weekends.