General Description:
The Student Support Specialist is responsible for implementing a comprehensive and integrated program to support a positive school climate. A Specialist is assigned to designated schools in the division and provides targeted and individualized support to promote overall school safety and positive behavioral support through the implementation of trauma-informed and restorative practices.

 Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborates with school staff to develop and promote positive school climates
• Supports the development and implementation of school-wide behavioral protocols grounded in trauma-responsive and restorative practices
• Implements de-escalation, conflict resolution, bullying, and gang prevention and intervention strategies
• Supports school-wide implementation of Response to Intervention (RTI) and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) behavior support plans
• Works cooperatively with school-based mental health staff to provide support in implementing violence and bullying prevention programs.
• Collaborates with partner agencies to connect holistic support to students
• Monitors student behaviors and discipline data and makes recommendations to develop interventions to teach skills such as responsible thinking/decision-making, de-escalation, problem-solving and conflict resolution skills in students at the universal and small group level
• Facilitates individualized interventions, social skills groups, and community and healing circles
• Serves as liaison between school, home, and community partners to provide services to students and caregivers
• Supports students transitioning from alternative settings
• Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree required; Bachelor’s Degree in counseling, social work, criminal justice, or related field preferred
• 3 years of experience working with youth intervention programs preferred
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and solve problems creatively
• Demonstrated knowledge of de-escalation, behavioral intervention, and conflict resolution strategies
• Excellent communication (oral and written), organizational, presentation, and public relations skills
• Demonstrated understanding of and sensitivity to the diverse cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds of families
• Ability to work a flexible schedule and participate in evening and weekend events as required
• Bilingual (English / Spanish) preferred

HOW TO APPLY: All applicants (including RPS employees) must submit an online application. Please access the website at: www.rvaschools.net

Please upload a current resume with your application.

Three reference names and contact information will be required if you progress to the interview step of the selection process. Richmond Public Schools will conduct a background investigation, fingerprinting, and tuberculosis screening as a condition of employment.  EOE.