In alignment with the district’s strategic plan,with a focus on equity, the Social Work Code of Ethics, and under general supervision of building administrators and the Assistant Director of Clinical Supports, social workers provide services at the universal/whole school (Tier I), targeted/small group (TierII) and intensive/individual (Tier III) levels to support the social and emotional wellness and academic success of ALL students. Strong candidates should have knowledge and experience
integrating trauma-informed approaches within a positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS) framework, supporting the implementation of social emotional learning (SEL) curricula
(e.g., Second Step at the primary level), and use of evidence-based clinical/counseling interventions for individuals and small groups.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Participates in efforts to strengthen schoolwide (Tier I) behavioral supports.
- Provides evidence-based small group (Tier II) and individual (Tier III) interventions to students based on needs assessments and progress monitoring/evaluation.
- Participates in the individual education plan (IEP), 504, and response-to-intervention (RtI) teams and provides services as determined; responsibilities are shared between the two school social workers in the building.
- Participates in school-based teams involving collaboration with other school personnel and community agencies.
- Provides professional development opportunities for the school community (e.g., whole school presentations on the impact of trauma on the brain/learning during childhood,de-escalation skills, etc.; coaching to individual educators around trauma-informed care).
- Works with the school community to ensure that equity and cultural responsiveness are Prioritized. Enhances attention to equity and cultural humility.
- Consults and coordinates child welfare and safety referrals and provides follow-up case-management.
- Provides crisis intervention and appropriate referrals and follow-up.
- Serves as a liaison between school, family and community resources; serves as a source of information and support regarding community resources (e.g., food, housing, clothing, support services).
- Maintains appropriate documentation and provides written reports and communications; participation as a resource person in in-service training and planning.
- Maintains professional boundaries, code of ethics, and confidentiality.
- Performs related work as needed.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
- Working knowledge of the pertinent standards and regulations in Maine programs, low-income and culturally diverse populations, and trauma-informed practices.
- Knowledge of the principles and methods of social work.
- Knowledge of positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBIS).
- Ability to collaborate with a diverse social work and teaching staff.
- Ability to work collaboratively and effectively with PPS, community agencies, staff and families.
- Effective team leadership skills.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, proficient computer skills, and time-management.
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
- Masters degree in social work from an accredited college or university.
- Experience in delivery of clinical services to students and families.
- Additional combinations of applicable education, training, and experience.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATION STANDARDS
A valid license issued by the Maine State Board of Social Work Examiners.
NOTE: While a valid license issued by the Maine State Board of Social Work Examiners is
preferred, recent graduates of masters programs in social work and individuals seeking
licensure are encouraged to apply if they meet minimum qualifications standards.
Portland Public Schools is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from
discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender, sexual
orientation, marital/civil union status, ancestry, place of birth, age, citizenship status, veteran
status, political affiliation or disability, as defined and required by state and federal laws.