Community Support Specialist - 10 month position

$36,000 - $38,000/Yr

The Pathways Schools - Catonsville, MD

Full-time - Entry Level

Catonsville, MD

Educational Services

About the position

The Community Support Specialist (CSS) position at The Pathways Schools is a 10-month role designed to provide essential support to students with special needs. Under the supervision of the Principal and in collaboration with certified teachers and therapists, the CSS is responsible for planning and delivering community-based academic, vocational, social skills, and transition experiences tailored to meet the individual needs of students as outlined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). This role is crucial in ensuring that students receive the necessary support to thrive both academically and socially, while also preparing them for future employment opportunities. The CSS will work closely with students to implement lessons and activities that address their specific strengths and needs, ensuring compliance with county curricula and IEP objectives. Responsibilities include providing instructional assistance, conducting educational assessments, and maintaining documentation that meets regulatory standards. Additionally, the CSS will collaborate with therapists to provide crisis management and assist students in accessing community resources, thereby fostering their independence and self-advocacy skills. Transitioning students into the workforce is a key component of this role. The CSS will support employment and career development through vocational assessments, career exploration, and internship placements. Furthermore, the position involves coordinating transportation for students to various community locations for school-related activities, ensuring their safety and accessibility. Participation in interdisciplinary staff meetings is also expected, allowing for collaboration and sharing of best practices among staff members. The CSS will perform other related duties as assigned, contributing to the overall mission of The Pathways Schools to provide a supportive and enriching environment for students with special needs.

Responsibilities

• Plan and implement lessons and activities to meet IEP and ITP goals.
• Provide instructional assistance to teachers and complete educational assessments.
• Ensure documentation meets regulation mandates, timelines, and quality.
• Provide crisis management and assist students in accessing community resources.
• Implement behavior management systems in collaboration with therapists.
• Support employment and career development, including vocational assessments and career exploration.
• Coordinate and provide transportation for assigned students.
• Participate in site and Pathways-wide interdisciplinary staff meetings.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED required; Bachelor's degree preferred.
• Degree in special education or related field preferred (e.g., education, psychology, social work, sociology, criminology).
• 6 months experience with adolescents and knowledge of community and employment resources.
• Access to a working insured vehicle for Pathways use, including student transport.
• Valid driver's license and a good driving record.
• Knowledge of standard operating procedures, policies, and procedures.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and interact professionally with students and staff.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Technological competence, including knowledge of Windows, Word, Excel, Outlook, and Google.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in special education or related fields.
• Familiarity with community resources for adolescents.
• Participation in continued education, seminars, or workshops.