School Social Worker

Job Title: High School Social Worker
Reports To: School Principal 
Location: North Chicago

Job Overview

The High School Social Worker provides critical support to students, families, and staff by addressing social, emotional, and behavioral challenges that impact academic performance and overall well-being. They work collaboratively to help students navigate the complexities of adolescence, prepare for post-secondary life, and access necessary resources. The High School Social Worker also supports a positive school climate by promoting equity, inclusion, and mental health awareness.

Key Responsibilities

• Student Support:

  • Conduct assessments to identify social, emotional, and behavioral issues affecting high school students.
  • Provide individual and group counseling, focusing on issues such as stress, anxiety, peer relationships, substance abuse, family conflict, and self-esteem.
  • Develop and implement intervention plans tailored to the unique needs of high school students.
  • Support students in crisis, including those experiencing trauma, grief, suicidal ideation, or bullying.

• Post-Secondary Readiness:

  • Help students explore and address barriers to achieving academic and career goals.
  • Collaborate with counselors to support college and career planning, including addressing socio-emotional challenges related to post-secondary transitions.

• Family and Community Engagement:

  • Partner with families to address challenges impacting student success, such as housing instability, mental health, and family dynamics.
  • Connect families with local community resources, including mental health services, food assistance, or housing programs.

• Collaboration with School Staff:

  • Work closely with teachers, administrators, and counselors to create a safe and supportive school environment.
  • Participate in Student Support Team (SST), Individualized Education Program (IEP), and 504 Plan meetings to advocate for students’ needs.
  • Provide training for staff on topics such as adolescent mental health, trauma-informed practices, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

• Crisis Intervention:

  • Lead crisis management efforts for issues like substance abuse, violence, and mental health emergencies.
  • Facilitate restorative practices to address conflict and discipline in a constructive way.

• Documentation and Compliance:

  • Maintain accurate, confidential records of student assessments, interventions, and referrals.
  • Ensure compliance with school policies, district guidelines, and state and federal regulations related to student welfare and confidentiality.

Qualifications

• Education: degree in Social Work
• Licensure/Certification:
  • State certification/licensure in school social work.
  • Clinical licensure (e.g., LCSW) preferred but not always required.
• Experience:
  • Prior experience working with high school-aged youth, families, and school systems.
  • Familiarity with adolescent development and the challenges of the high school environment.

Key Skills and Competencies

• Expertise in adolescent mental health and behavioral interventions.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Cultural competence and ability to work with diverse student populations.
• Knowledge of restorative practices, trauma-informed care, and crisis management.
• Familiarity with college and career readiness frameworks and programs.

Work Environment

The High School Social Worker primarily works within the school building, with occasional home visits, community meetings, and outreach efforts. Some evening or weekend availability may be required for events or urgent situations.