Student Support Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization that responds to the world’s worst crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Founded in 1933, the IRC has been dedicated to helping those affected by conflict and disaster, providing essential services and support to refugees and displaced individuals. The organization operates in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to deliver aid and support to vulnerable populations. The IRC's mission is to restore safety, dignity, and hope to millions who are uprooted and struggling to endure. They focus on empowering individuals and communities to rebuild their lives and achieve self-sufficiency, with a strong emphasis on education, health, and economic wellbeing.

Job Overview:
The Student Support Specialist plays a crucial role in facilitating the academic and civic integration of refugee students within the Abilene Independent School District (AISD). This position is designed to support refugee students and their families by coordinating educational services and promoting academic success. The specialist will assess the educational backgrounds of newly arrived students, identify barriers to their academic success, and develop individualized educational service plans tailored to their unique needs. The role involves orienting students and parents to the U.S. education system and the specific regulations of the AISD, ensuring that families are well-informed and supported as they navigate their new educational environment. The specialist will also connect students with tutoring resources and refer them to additional services provided by the IRC or external partners for medical and social support. Furthermore, the specialist will oversee volunteer mentors who assist in academic coaching and facilitate group-based programming, ensuring that all activities align with the program's design and objectives. This position requires strong communication skills, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to safeguarding the welfare of students.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Student Support Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at supporting refugee students and their families. Key duties include:

• Conducting educational case management and coaching by assessing the educational backgrounds of refugee students, identifying barriers to academic success, and developing individualized educational service plans.
• Collaborating with parents to create academic support service plans for their children enrolled in the program.
• Orienting newly arrived students and their families on the U.S. education system and AISD regulations.
• Connecting students with tutoring resources and referring them to IRC services or external partners for additional support.
• Providing training and oversight to volunteer mentors who will assist in academic coaching and facilitate group-based programming.
• Planning and organizing group-based student programming schedules, including logistics and meeting agendas.
• Facilitating group meetings and activities such as Spring Break and Summer Academy in accordance with the program design.
• Monitoring student attendance and maintaining regular communication with parents and caregivers.
• Providing cultural and refugee-specific training to educational partners. 1
• Maintaining program documentation and reporting, ensuring compliance with IRC standards and contractual obligations. 1
• Contributing to program reporting for both internal and external purposes. 1
• Collaborating with Youth Programs team members and other office colleagues to ensure comprehensive support for families served across departments. 1
• Supporting the volunteer coordinator in recruiting mentors and ensuring follow-up on referrals across programs. 1
• Performing other responsibilities as assigned by the supervisor.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Student Support Specialist position should possess the following qualifications:

• A Bachelor’s degree is strongly preferred, ideally in education, psychology, social work, or a related field.
• Experience working with at-risk youth, particularly in educational and social program contexts.
• Experience in case management and familiarity with refugee and/or immigrant populations is highly desirable.
• A demonstrated understanding of the U.S. education system and its regulations.
• Excellent communication skills, with fluency in both written and spoken English.
• Bilingual ability in one of the predominant languages of the local client base is preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• A valid driver’s license and access to a reliable vehicle with current insurance are required, along with the ability to travel regularly throughout the service delivery area.
• Flexibility to work hours that accommodate meetings with middle and high school students outside of regular school hours, which may include occasional weekend and/or evening work.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Student Support Specialist position includes a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in fields such as education, psychology, social work, or a related discipline. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of educational systems and the specific needs of refugee students and their families. Candidates with advanced degrees or specialized training in relevant areas may be viewed favorably, as they can bring additional expertise to the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate for the Student Support Specialist position should have a minimum of two years of relevant experience working with at-risk youth, particularly in educational or social service settings. Experience in case management, especially with refugee or immigrant populations, is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the challenges faced by refugee students and possess the skills necessary to provide effective support and advocacy for their educational needs.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, bilingual ability in one of the predominant languages spoken by the local refugee population is highly desirable, as it will enhance communication and support for students and their families. Proficiency in other languages relevant to the community served will be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is represented by the OPEIU union and is subject to the terms and conditions of a collective bargaining agreement. The compensation for this role is set at $20.40 per hour, with pay ranges applicable to U.S.-based candidates. These ranges are determined based on various factors, including the labor market, job type, internal equity, and budget considerations. The exact compensation offer will be calibrated according to the work location and the individual candidate's experience and skills relative to the defined job requirements. The IRC is committed to providing a comprehensive benefits package, which includes 10 sick days, 10 U.S. holidays, and 20-25 paid time off days depending on the role and tenure. Medical insurance options start at $163 per month, with dental and vision plans available at competitive rates. Additional benefits include a flexible spending account (FSA) for healthcare and commuter costs, a 403b retirement savings plan with immediate vesting and matching contributions, disability and life insurance, and an Employee Assistance Program to support staff and their families during times of crisis and mental health challenges.