Family & Community Engagement Support Specialist

About It Takes A Village Family of Schools (ITAV):

ITAV is a beacon for educating and loving Black children. We provide a comprehensive, culturally responsive social justice education and life-empowering social services. At ITAV, learning is fun and transformative, teaching is innovative, and knowledge is not bound by the walls of the classroom. Students, staff, and families are empowered to be civically engaged and make positive change by addressing local, national, and global issues.  

Role:

The Family and Community Engagement (FACE) department of ITAV is seeking a Family Support Specialist to join our team. The Family Support Team at ITAV helps families access an array of supports and services that promote the well-being of families, students, and the community.

The Family Support Specialist is primarily responsible for increasing the strength and resilience of families through the provision of comprehensive case management services. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

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  Assist families in addressing health care barriers and ensuring each family has a primary care physician

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  Prepare and distribute health reminders in a timely manner

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  Ensure student health compliance by collecting physical exams, immunizations, and dental records

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  Develop and maintain meaningful and productive relationships with students and families 

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  Facilitate individual and group discussions and activities with families and/or community members

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  Complete family assessment within 45 days of enrollment and provide the family with relevant referrals

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  Provide bi-monthly follow-up case notes for all service connections and referrals

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  Attend community events as needed  to connect with families and resources in the community

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  Assist families in creating and achieving goals each school year

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  Lead and assist in planning family and community engagement activities

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  Implement family engagement best practices to encourage family participation in program activities 

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  Audit and maintain compliance of student files

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  Engage in regular professional development and training

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  Casenote all staff/family interactions in a timely manner within 24 hours

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  In collaboration with the enrollment team, recruit for full program enrollment 

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  Perform other duties as assigned

Why Join Us?

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  Impact: Step into a pivotal role within our organization, where you'll serve as a cornerstone in the support system for hundreds of families.

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  Growth: Join a forward-thinking organization committed to innovation and expansion, offering abundant opportunities for professional development and career advancement as a Family Support Specialist.

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  Community: Work alongside a dedicated team of educators and staff who share your passion for making a positive impact in the lives of students and their families.

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  Innovation: Contribute to the development and implementation of cutting-edge strategies and programs that integrate social justice, community engagement, and academic excellence into our model of family support.

Location(s): It Takes A Village Early Learning Center (Austin Community)

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $50,000 - $60,000

Required Education and Experience:

• A bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Family Studies, or a Related Field is required. 

• At least 2 years’ experience working with underserved families with diverse backgrounds

• Illinois Mandated Reporter Training, Acknowledgement & Certificate Required 

• Must have an automobile, a valid driver’s license, and insurance

• CPR/First Aid Certification preferred

Skills:

• Self-starter, with the ability to work collectively and/or independently 

• Intermediate knowledge of CSD Cares, Salesforce, and Lineleaders

• Knowledge of PI, PFA, Head Start, and Early Head Start funding requirements

• Ability to work under pressure while remaining professional and exhibiting a positive attitude 

• Ability to meet deadlines, prepare detailed reports, and maintain documentation 

• Ability to work evenings and Saturdays as needed

• Must be able to travel within the community (i.e., families’ homes, and community agencies, which may require climbing stairs, walking, standing, lifting, etc..

• Must possess excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Must be able to demonstrate the passion, skill, and competence necessary to contribute to each family’s development.

• Excellent listening, written, and oral communication skills  

• Demonstrated problem-solving ability, accuracy, and attention to detail.  

• Superior technical skills, including proficiency with Google Suite and Microsoft Office 

• Bilingual in English and Spanish is a plus
   

Additional Requirements:

• Must have the physical ability to perform essential tasks, including climbing stairs, walking multiple city blocks, standing for extended periods, and lifting up to 50 pounds.

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required; must be able to travel within the designated service area

Who You Are:

• You are a passionate advocate for family well-being and community empowerment, dedicated to advancing social justice and equity through transformative family support practices.

• A strategic thinker, you have a proven track record in enhancing student success and school performance.

• Your strength lies in building relationships and fostering collaboration within the educational community. 

• You are a creative and dynamic problem-solver who thrives in evolving educational landscapes. 

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're inspired to contribute to our mission and lead our recruitment, admissions, and enrollment efforts into an exciting new chapter, we'd love to hear from you. To apply, please upload your cover letter and resume here.

Compensation and Benefits Package:

• Competitive, transparent pay scale aligned with local public schools

• 80% employer contribution of medical benefits

• Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance

• 3% 401(k) company match

• Up to $10,000 in annual tuition assistance 

• Targeted, ongoing professional development

• International travel opportunities with students

• Opportunities for leadership, growth, and meaningful impact