As part of SCO's Forward Journey Initiative, the Academic Advocate works with designated children on a one-on-one basis to support and advocate for them, connecting them to quality schools, programs, resources, and opportunities aligned with their goals. Academic Advocates provide ongoing social and emotional support, including connecting children to tutoring and peer support opportunities.
Key program components include:
Community-based: Staff meet youth wherever is best for them (e.g., home, school, community).Systemic approach: Incorporates multiple aspects of the child's natural ecology (e.g., community, peers, family, school).Comprehensive: Addresses the full range of a child's needs and goals (e.g., academic, career, housing, relationships).Academic Advocate duties include, but are not limited to:
Overall
- Provide ongoing social and emotional support.
- Maintain primary school, connect child to quality schools, programs, and resources when a change in school is needed, ensuring a seamless transition.
- Collaborate with Case Planners, Tutors, Specialists, Foster Parents, and Parents, as needed, to help children achieve their goals and ensure their overall well-being.
- Transport youth to/from school when necessary.
- Complete all necessary data entry systems (e.g., progress notes, Education tabs in Connections, ASARA).
- Visit child's school as needed, build relationships with school staff, review transcripts and academic data, provide educational advocacy, and discuss progress.
- Ensure children attend school and have the supports and resources they need to succeed, such as tutoring, individualized educational plans, 504 Plans, or other accommodations.
- Register all new intakes, ensuring they are placed in the most appropriate school setting and have necessary educational tools.
- Register all 3K, 4K, and Kindergarten children in appropriate educational settings.
- Perform other tasks as assigned by the Supervisor.
Qualifications - External
Education/Degree: Bachelor's Degree required.
Other skills and requirements:
- Experience in Education and Foster Care (preferred).
- Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with a strong sense of empathy and a passion for child welfare.
- Ability to respond to the developmental needs of children at various stages (early childhood, school age, young adulthood).
- Ability to work with diverse populations, including those with histories of trauma, mental health issues, or cultural differences.
- Compassionate, non-judgmental approach when working with individuals identifying as LGBTQ+ or exploring their identity.
- Strong time management, diligence, resilience, and teamwork skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel; experience with CONNECTIONS preferred.
- Valid NYS Driver's License required or timeframe to obtain one.
- Commitment to SCO's mission and programs.
- Bilingual applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.
Additional Information
About the company: SCO helps young children get a good start, supports youth into adulthood, strengthens families, and unlocks potential for people with special needs. We are committed to extraordinary reach, unconditional care, and life-changing results.
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