Transition Advocate

About the Organization Center for Community Alternatives (CCA) supports and builds power with people across New York State who have been affected by mass incarceration, criminalization and community disinvestment. Through a statewide network of direct services, advocacy and organizing, and by supporting the leadership of directly-impacted people, we advance civil and human rights for all New Yorkers. CCA works to build a world where everyone has what they need to thrive. Why Join the Team? At CCA, we are committed to fair, transparent pay, and we strive to provide competitive market‑informed compensation. The successful candidate's salary is determined by the combination of knowledge, skills, competencies, experience, and geography. Our goal is to continue to make CCA one of the most desirable nonprofit places to work, and in part, recognize the importance of work‑life balance. Position Overview The Transition Advocate provides intensive advocacy and transition support services to Rochester City School District (RCSD) students referred to CCA’s Transition Advocacy Program. The role supports youth involved in Superintendent’s Hearings and assists students transitioning back to mainstream school following long‑term absences related to suspension, juvenile detention, incarceration, or residential placement. The Transition Advocate serves as a systems navigator, student advocate, and collaborative partner with families, school personnel, and community stakeholders to promote educational access, equity, and long‑term student success. Primary Responsibilities Student Advocacy & Disciplinary Support Inform and ensure students and parents/guardians understand their rights and responsibilities under NYS Education Law §3214 and the RCSD Code of Conduct Advocate for students during Superintendent’s Hearings, informal hearings, conferences, and disciplinary proceedings Participate in Manifestation Determination Reviews (MDRs) and related CSE meetings for students with disabilities Provide targeted advocacy for students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan Transition & Re‑Entry Services Support students transitioning back to mainstream school following long‑term suspension, juvenile detention, or incarceration Conduct comprehensive youth assessments through meetings with students, families, and school staff, and review relevant academic, disciplinary, and support records Develop individualized, strengths‑based return‑to‑school transition plans Collaborate with RCSD administrators, principals, teachers, and support staff to address barriers and promote student success Restorative & Preventive Interventions Address underlying factors contributing to student behavior in accordance with the RCSD Code of Conduct Support restorative meetings and interventions that promote accountability, healing, and educational continuity Advocate for appropriate services, referrals, and accommodations aligned with student needs Ongoing Engagement & Documentation Provide follow‑up support for up to six (6) months post‑transition to monitor progress and sustainability Connect students and families to school‑based and community supports as needed Maintain accurate, timely documentation in case files and designated data systems Participate in professional development and training to strengthen practice and compliance Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor Qualifications Associated degree required; Bachelor’s preferred with work experience in facilitation, education, social work, public administration, community development, or a related field preferred. Demonstrated experience facilitating youth groups, internships, or leadership development programs. Skilled in curriculum development, group facilitation, and youth‑centered instructional strategies. Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to support youth presentations and reflection. Commitment to equity, inclusion, and the amplification of youth voice. Ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced, time‑limited project environment. Relevant personal experience in terms of recovery and/or justice involvement, a plus. Travel Requirements Required regular travel within Monroe County. Travel elsewhere in NYS as needed. The Center for Community Alternatives requires any employee using their automobile on behalf of the company to carry a minimum bodily injury limit of $100,000 per person, $300,000 for each accident, and property damage limits of $100,000 for each accident. Benefits 12 paid holidays per year 20 days of earned time off (ETO) for full‑time staff, with the ability to use it after 90‑days of employment Time off is earned starting on your first day 7 days of paid sick time 100% paid family leave Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program Application Requirements All applicants must submit cover letter with resume. Contact CCA Website: HERE #J-18808-Ljbffr Center for Community Alternatives, Inc.