School Social Worker

Charles H. Walsh Sr. Academy & Career Tech High School; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established educational institution is seeking a dedicated School Social Worker to provide essential counseling services to students and their families. This role involves conducting assessments, preparing IEPs, and collaborating with families and external agencies to support students' social-emotional and educational growth. The ideal candidate will possess a Master's Degree in a relevant field and have experience in behavioral health, particularly with children and adolescents. Join a committed team in a dynamic environment where your contributions will make a significant impact on students' lives.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in counseling, social work, or psychology required.
• 1-2 years of experience in behavioral health preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conducts assessments and reviews student referral packets.
• Maintains communication with school district personnel.
• Prepares IEP and reports for special education meetings.

Skills

Effective verbal and written communication

Knowledge of IEP processes

Crisis intervention skills

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Organizational skills

Education

Master’s Degree in mental health or human services

Current state licensure (PEL)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Google G-Suite

Job description

Job Description

POSITION SUMMARY

The School Social Worker provides both direct and indirect counseling services to students and their families and/or legal guardians. The School Social Worker offers services as required by the student’s IEP to help individuals meet their social-emotional and educational potential. The School Social Worker collaborates with families, outside agencies, and school district personnel to provide consultation, transition planning, and educational services coordination. The School Social Worker is a vital member of the school team.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

1. Conducts social developmental studies and cultural and/or adaptive behavioral assessments relevant to special education evaluations.
2. Reviews student referral packets for relevant social development and mental health information.
3. Maintains ongoing communication with school district personnel regarding student progress.
4. Stays informed about available outside agencies, hospitals, rehabilitation programs, and social service facilities.
5. Gathers information from staff prior to student IEP meetings.
6. Prepares IEP and other reports for special education meetings.
7. Provides verbal or written feedback on student progress, goals, and objectives during meetings.
8. Communicates with parents supportively, providing information related to special education.
9. Participates in and contributes to in-service sessions, offering suggestions for future topics.
10. Encourages student organizations that support personal and institutional goals.
11. Maintains knowledge of key issues affecting students' actions and learning, both past and present.
12. Adjusts and integrates treatment and instructional strategies accordingly.
13. Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE

• Master’s Degree in a mental health or human services field from an accredited college (counseling, social work, psychology).
• Current state licensure (PEL) required (ISBE Type 73, LCSW, LSW, LPC, or LCPC).
• At least 1-2 years of experience in behavioral health, including individual, family, and group therapies, crisis intervention, and treatment skills; experience with children and adolescents preferred.

SKILLS / KNOWLEDGE

• Valid Illinois driver’s license.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills with students, staff, support agencies, and external contacts.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Outlook, Google G-Suite, and other specified software.
• Knowledge of IEP processes, service delivery, therapy techniques, crisis intervention, and clinical assessments.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Good telephone etiquette.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Frequent sitting, standing, bending, walking, and driving; ability to ascend/descend stairs.
• Occasional lifting/moving of objects or youth over 40 pounds.
• Ability to physically restrain students if necessary.
• Sufficient visual, hearing, and learning capabilities.
• Participation in physical activities with students and physical intervention if required.
• Frequent computer work requiring manual dexterity.