School Social Worker

Location: Woodridge Interventions | 2221 64th St. | Woodridge, IL 60517 Salary: Starting at $63,000 annually, Final rate will be based on years of experience and academic credentials. Job Type: Full-time 196 day per year working position/8 hour days M-F. Who We Are Abraxas Youth & Family Services is a national nonprofit human services provider dedicated to building better futures for at‑risk youth, adults, and families. Our diversified array of services includes alternative education, outpatient counseling, in‑home services, shelter, detention, residential treatment and re‑entry/transition services. Since 1973, our team members have positively impacted the lives of those we serve and the communities in which they live. Position Summary The School social worker at Meridian North assists students with academic learning by providing strategic services that identify and address the social‑emotional‑environmental issues that interfere with the educational process. Working with parents/guardians, teachers, the school principal and community‑based resources, the school social worker implements strategies that promote a positive school experience for all students. Qualifications Masters Degree from a school social work program accredited by the Council on School Social Work; alternative education experience working with students that have at‑risk behavior or special needs. Valid Illinois licensure as a School Social Worker (PEL School Support Personnel) and advanced training in the social and emotional development of individuals with exceptional needs. Certification required: Illinois Certification LBS I. Documented training in drug and alcohol addiction and recovery. Writing Skills – ability to compose a variety of correspondence such as memoranda, letters, agendas, summaries, etc. in a clear and concise manner, and proofread the work of others. Verbal Skills – ability to speak clearly when interacting with others in person or by telephone, ask clarifying questions, and communicate with officials, clients and the general public. Accuracy of Work – ability to complete assignments accurately and within given deadlines, and plan accordingly when project deadlines change. Independence and Teamwork – ability to work independently and in group settings, and willingness to lead the work of others on occasion. Computer Skills – knowledge of all software applications used by the supported group, including word processing, spreadsheets, graphics, charts and database software, and ability to integrate applications when completing assignments. Office Equipment – thorough understanding of office equipment typically found in an office environment. Minimum age 21 years. Criminal background checks (Act 33 and 34, specific state & child clearances and, if necessary, FBI). Non‑communicable diseases physical exam. Valid driver’s license issued by the state of residence. Valid registered vehicle insurance. Benefits & Perks Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Flexible Spending Accounts; Basic Life & Short‑Term Disability Insurance 401(k) Savings Plan Life Assistance Program (LAP); Tuition Assistance Program Paid Time Off (PTO); Paid Holidays; Paid Training; Advancement Opportunities Primary Duties and Responsibilities Identifies and assesses academic problems through analysis of factors impinging on student adjustment including factors in the home, school, and community. Serves as a liaison between families and the school to positively promote collaborative processes in educational planning for students by encouraging parent/guardian participation in the school setting. Provides individual and group therapeutic counseling to students and their families. Provides parent/guardian educational workshops on identified issues related to adolescent development, stress reduction, discipline and safety, and teacher/parent/student communication. Collaborates with school staff and other school system personnel in implementing strategies to promote student learning. Participates as members of the IEP and other school‑based teams to develop interventions for promoting students’ academic success. Provides crisis intervention services. Provides social work case management for students and families. Provides staff consultation on behavioral‑emotional‑environmental issues affecting student participation in the learning process. Conducts staff development on issues related to social‑emotional‑environmental factors that impact learning. Develops programs to address parent/guardian participation in the school and student engagement in the educational process. Conducts classroom meetings, psycho‑educational social‑skills groups, and classroom presentations on identified areas of concern for the students. Maintains required clinical records and submits appropriate documents for statistical reports with adherence to program standards in school social work. Completes risk assessments on referred students. Completes functional behavior assessments on identified students. Completes classroom student observations. Serves as liaison with community agencies and assists in fostering communication between schools, parents/guardians, and community leaders. Locates and mobilizes community resources to support the educational program. Attends meetings and professional development activities as required. Develops and coordinates specialized programmatic activities for the program to assist with addressing student needs and individualizing their educational needs. Maintains a current list of resources that includes self‑help/support groups to ensure comprehensive services are provided to students and their families. Facilitates staff meetings and conferences at the direction of the Principal. Complies with Abraxas Youth And Family Services policies and work rules as described in the company Employee Handbook, Seven Key Principles of care, the Facility Policies and Procedure Manual, and directives of Abraxas Youth and Family Services managers and supervisors. Performs other duties as required. Why Should You Consider Abraxas? At Abraxas, we celebrate the richness of our diverse employees and the communities we serve, and we are actively committed to building a culture of awareness and belonging. We are dedicated to respect, equity, and the engagement of those we serve and our employees. As a provider of trauma‑informed care, we firmly believe in recovery and that our clients can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives. Whether you’re looking to begin a rewarding career or you’re a seasoned professional wanting a new challenge, we have a place for you and opportunities for development at all levels. All of our benefits are designed to support you both at home and at work, with a focus on providing choice when it comes to physical, emotional, and financial wellness. If you want to have a positive impact in the lives of others, come join us! Equal Opportunity Employer Abraxas Youth & Family Services, an affiliate of Apis Services Inc., offers a rewarding career for those passionate about making a difference in the lives of others. We are a great place to start your career whether you have a high school diploma or GED, military experience, some college, or a bachelor or advanced degree. If you are interested in counseling, juvenile justice, psychology, social work, teaching or just want to make a difference, we have a career path for you. #J-18808-Ljbffr