Student and Family Support Specialist - Watertown, NY

Position Overview This Student and Family Support Specialist will serve the 4‑H Afterschool Program at the Cornell Cooperative Extension Association of Jefferson County. The role is based in one or more school districts: Watertown City School District, Indian River Central School District, Beaver River Central School District, LaFargeville Central School District, Belleville Henderson Central School District, Carthage Central School District, and Copenhagen Central School District. Responsibilities Program Delivery, Evaluation and Applied Research (80%) Provide the educational program as defined in the grant application. Implement family engagement and literacy events, activities and tasks to meet program objectives and goals. Coordinate events and activities with school personnel and community organizations to promote family involvement and academic success. Implement established 4‑H Youth Development programming to support family engagement strategies. Provide ongoing family engagement activities regarding best practices working with adults and youth. Foster acceptance of the school community and address community, family and individual needs for diverse audiences. Utilize phone calls, special events, written communication, workshops, family engagement and literacy events to support parents/caregivers. Use established program resources and materials to provide information and resources to youth and families. Provide individualized assistance to students with special needs or those requiring additional support during the 4‑H Afterschool program. Facilitate student access to afterschool activities, help students maintain focus, and support academic and social‑emotional development. Work with the 4‑H Afterschool Program Manager, Site Supervisors and district staff to identify resources for student success. Assist the 4‑H Afterschool Program Manager and/or Director in ensuring program delivery is within scope of the statewide and Association Plan of Work. Serve as subject‑matter resource in 4‑H Youth Development and family engagement and provide standard responses. Serve as a team member and cooperate with the entire CCE Association, Youth and Family Program area and school district to achieve program delivery goals. Assist in creating a welcoming school environment for families that promotes active involvement in education. Maintain a presence in the school at designated times to reach out to families and facilitate communication. Serve as a representative on appropriate teams such as the 4‑H Afterschool Advisory Committee. Administrative Responsibilities Direction and Management – 5% Provide low‑complex administrative management of established educational program goals. Resolve problems and conflicts arising in the program using appropriate policies and procedures. Guide volunteers and staff, including those performing similar work, using established practices. Identify and recommend program needs (e.g., supplies, materials) to the Manager. Help the Manager ensure the program meets health, safety and licensing standards. Coordination/Operation – 10% Coordinate and assist with program projects and outreach efforts under the Manager’s direction. Compile and organize existing program resources and materials. Implement the established program schedule. Assist with program evaluation, including collecting evaluation and needs assessment data. Coordinate activities related to 4‑H afterschool programming. Draft standard and non‑standard communications requiring occasional guidance from the Manager. Coordinate administrative aspects such as ordering and inventory of supplies, marketing, and brochure development. Provide administrative support for fund‑development activities and effective marketing strategies (print, news, social media). Professional Improvement and Other Duties – 5% Participate in required SACC and OCFS licensing training regulations. Develop and pursue a professional development plan with the Supervisor/Executive Director. Collaborate in activities that support Cornell Cooperative Extension, including staff meetings and reporting of expenses. Health and Safety Support the association in maintaining a safe working environment. Follow applicable federal, state, local regulations and association policies. Act proactively to prevent accidents/injuries and communicate hazards to supervisors. Qualifications Associate’s Degree or equivalent education (GED/High School Diploma and 1 year of transferable program/functional experience). Experience relevant to the role. Valid NYS Driver’s License and ability to meet travel requirements. Ability to meet all School Age Child Care (SACC) and Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) licensing requirements (Tuberculosis Test, physical exam, training). Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and/or weekends. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated knowledge of subject matter appropriate to area of programming. Demonstrated ability to facilitate and develop meaningful relationships with parents, community members, organizations, and students. Demonstrated ability to connect new programming to existing programs and initiatives, and to link programming to academics and curriculum. Demonstrated ability to function as a team member working with volunteers and staff. Demonstrated ability to organize reference materials for programming purposes. Demonstrated ability to relate to diverse audiences. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively through oral, written, and visual means. Demonstrated ability to utilize computer technologies for educational and communication purposes. Benefits and Compensation Part‑time, non‑exempt, 30 hours per week. Hourly rate: $20.55. Comprehensive benefits package (health and dental insurance, retirement, vacation, sick and personal leave) based on eligibility. Application Information All applicants must apply online by close of day on September 4, 2026. Submit a complete application that includes a cover letter, resume, and three (3) references. External applicants must submit their materials via the “APPLY” button on this posting. Internal applicants must apply online via their Workday account. For questions, please contact Diana Young, Assistant Manager for HR in Afterschool, at View phone number on click.appcast.io. Contact Jerilynn Cross (Contact Name) Legal Notice Notice to Applicants: Please read the required Notice to Applicants statement. This notice contains important information about applying for a position at Cornell Cooperative Extension and your rights and responsibilities as an applicant. Equal Employment Opportunity This position is posted in compliance with the Equal Employment Opportunity Act. All qualified applicants will receive consideration. #J-18808-Ljbffr Cornell University