Community Support Specialist - 10 month

$28,500 - $32,000/Yr

The Pathways Schools - Annapolis, MD

Full-time

Annapolis, MD

Educational Services

About the position

The Community Support Specialist (CSS) position is a vital role within the educational framework, primarily focused on providing community-based academic, vocational, social skills, and transition experiences tailored to meet the needs of assigned students. This role operates under the supervision of the Principal and collaborates closely with certified teachers, therapists, and other staff members to ensure that students receive individualized instruction and support as outlined in their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). The CSS is responsible for planning and implementing lessons and activities that align with the county curricula and the specific objectives of the students' IEPs. This position emphasizes the importance of teamwork and collaboration, as the CSS works alongside various professionals to facilitate the educational and developmental needs of students. In addition to instructional responsibilities, the CSS plays a crucial role in therapeutic support, providing crisis management and assisting students in accessing community resources. This includes arranging appointments and implementing behavior management systems to help students navigate their educational and social environments effectively. The CSS also supports transition efforts by collaborating with transition specialists and job coaches to promote employment and career development opportunities for students. This includes conducting vocational assessments, facilitating career exploration, and assisting with internship and employment placements. The role requires coordination of transportation for students, ensuring they can access school-related activities and community resources. The CSS position is designed for individuals who are passionate about supporting adolescents with diverse needs and who possess the skills necessary to foster positive relationships with students, peers, and other stakeholders. The role does not include supervisory responsibilities, allowing the CSS to focus on direct support and collaboration with the educational team.

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 standards.
• 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 transportation for assigned students between their residences and school-related activities.
• Participate in interdisciplinary staff meetings as appropriate.
• 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 of experience working with adolescents and knowledge of community and employment resources.
• Access to a working insured vehicle for 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 stakeholders.
• 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.
• Skills in crisis intervention and behavior management.