Ediucation Specialist

Job Summary

This is a professional position that is primarily responsible for advocating for the educational needs of children involved in the dependency system and to lead education initiatives geared toward improving educational outcomes.

Essential Functions

• Establish and maintain positive working relationships with HFC customers and community stakeholders.
• Follow Florida Statute, Florida Administrative Code, policies and procedures.
• Follow the non‑consensus process for educational placement changes when a unanimous decision cannot be reached by all parties.
• Collaborate with local school district partners, case managers, Guardian ad Litem, caregivers and other partners to advocate for the educational needs of children in the dependency system.
• Participate in Multi‑Disciplinary Team staffings and serve as a subject‑matter expert regarding children’s education and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requirements.
• Schedule and facilitate ESSA staffings within 72 hours of request.
• Provide training to school district staff, case management staff, foster/adoptive parents and other community partners to improve communication, collaboration and educational outcomes for children in child welfare.
• Assist with educational initiatives, including execution of the interagency agreement, education‑related legislation, and facilitating interagency education workgroups.
• Act as a single point of contact for school district partners, foster parents, case managers and other stakeholders regarding educational issues.
• Track and analyze education data to identify processes for improvement.
• Review and prioritize educational inquiries, ensuring appropriate response and data tracking.
• Participate in statewide education and prevention initiatives.
• Work a flexible schedule, which may include evening and weekend hours, to meet agency needs.
• Perform special projects as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Work, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Minimum of two years of experience working with children and families.
• Experience in child protective investigations or protective services preferred.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong facilitation and child advocacy skills.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Tuition assistance.
• Domestic partner coverage.
• Retirement plan.
• Generous paid time off.

Additional Information

Drug‑free workplace; drug testing required.

Equal Opportunity Employer – M/F/D/V.