Education Staff Attorney

About the role

Student Advocacy, Inc. (SAI) is a dynamic nonprofit organization providing counsel and legal representation on education matters for students in grades Pre-K – 12 who attend public schools in Westchester and Putnam Counties. We focus on students who face barriers to learning due to disabilities and other challenges and are at greatest risk of academic failure or disengagement from school. Our team, comprised of attorneys and advocates, work to ensure that students receive the educational services to which they are legally entitled, so they can make meaningful progress in school. SAI brings together schools, families, and social service agencies to ensure educational access for over 500 children annually.

Responsibilities

• Represent students and families in education-related matters, including special education, school discipline, enrollment, residency, attendance, transportation, and access to services
• Review and analyze school-based and independent evaluations, records, and other documentation to assess student needs and legal issues
• Draft state complaints and, as appropriate, appeals to the New York State Commissioner of Education
• Educate clients regarding their rights under education and special education law
• Maintain current knowledge of state and federal laws related to education, disability, and civil rights
• Track and ensure the accuracy of case records in LegalServer, our secure case management system
• Participate in community network meetings and outreach activities
• Collaborate with the Legal Director to review and develop legal strategy

Qualifications

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an ABA-accredited law school
• Admission to the New York State Bar in good standing
• Minimum of three years of legal experience, in education, or special education
• Fluency in Spanish preferred
• Strong advocacy, negotiation, legal research, and analytical skills
• Excellent project management, an ability to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines and manage multiple cases simultaneously
• Ability to build rapport with clients, families, school personnel and other stakeholders
• Proficiency in Microsoft Programs, virtual platforms, and client management system

Skills

Not specified

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits that include generous vacation and holiday time, health insurance, 401(k) plan and additional benefits as provided by organizational policy.

Pay

$75,000 - $87,000 annually

Schedule

Full-time

Contact Information

To apply for this position, submit materials to: drosenthal@studentadvocacy.net. Only responses with cover letters will be reviewed. This position is available immediately. Completed applications will be considered on a rolling basis.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Student Advocacy, Inc. encourages applications from all qualified individuals and does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital or familial status, veteran status, disability, AIDS/HIV status, medical condition, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.