School Social Worker

QUALIFICATIONS

• Certified as a School Social Worker by the New Jersey State Department of Education

• Knowledge  of NJAC 6A:14 and the diverse needs of students with and without disabilities and appropriate intervention practices

• Excellent oral and communication skills

• Demonstrated attitude for successful completion of tasks assigned

• Counseling experience with non-traditional, disruptive and disaffected students

• Such alternatives to the above qualifications the Commission finds appropriate and acceptable

SCOPE:

• The school Social Worker is part of an interdisciplinary team that is responsible for coordination and development of services for students, as well as delivery of related services and program monitoring/evaluation

REPORTS TO:

• Reports to the School Principal or other appropriate certified administrator as designated by the Superintendent

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides implementation services for students who require the services of a School Social Worker, including social assessments, IEP (initial and reevaluations)

• Provides individual, group and family counseling services as needed

• Develops linkages with and initiates referrals to appropriate service agencies

• Monitors student psychosocial progress

• Facilitates discussions between students and staff and participates in staff planning

• Provides student crisis intervention “as needed” and establishes effective and safe procedures for effective staff intervention

• Maintains and submits records and reports in an accurate and timely manner as required by the Commission, the State of New Jersey and the Federal government

• Provides staff information on varied teaching strategies and need expertise important in the development of successful instructional programs

• Develops and modifies behavioral management and educational programs as prescribed in the student’s individual educational plan as directed by building level administrator

• Adheres to all published school policies including those that pertain to reports, forms, confidentiality of records, and supervision of students and safety

• Confers with teachers, parents/guardians, child study team members and administrators concerning student problems that may require more efficient coordination and communication

• Serves as a resource to school staff and parents in the area of certification

• Keeps abreast of new research in the field of social work and counseling, especially as they relate and contribute to the effectiveness of the school program

• Provides educational support for a positive therapeutic classroom atmosphere through proactive crisis intervention and direct intervention to students as required

• Other responsibilities and assignments as directed by the Principal or building level administrator