Job Description: School-Based Mentor

The Youth Scholars, Skills, and Services (YS3) Mentor will develop a strong one-one relationship with youth taking part in the YS3 Program, as advocate, monitor, proactive interventionist, needs based program developer in the areas of enrichment and supplement, network and collaboration developer with case managers and foster care providers.

About Pedro Albizu Puerto Rican High School (PACHS)

Founded in 1972, PACHS takes a holistic approach linking education to the individual, social, emotional, and academic needs of our students and empowering them to be active participants in creating change at the global, local, and personal level. Courses are designed to meet competency-based initiatives and aligned with Common Core state standards. Instruction integrates community-based themes, which engage students in critical thinking and community inquiry. Classroom instruction is project and problem based with an emphasis on higher order thinking skills of inquiry and analysis in Humboldt Park. Our mission is to provide a quality educational experience needed to empower students to engage in critical thinking and social transformation, from the classroom to the Puerto Rican community, based on the philosophical foundation of self-determination, a methodology of self-actualization and an ethics of self-reliance.

Qualifications

● Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience preferred but not required (Education, Social Work, or Psychology background with equivalent experience) ● Bilingual (Spanish and English) ● Minimum of 3 years experience working with adolescents in DCFS care ● Knowledge of the child welfare system required. ● Must have adequate transportation for work related travel ● Must be willing to be on 24 hour call, 6 days a week ● Must be willing to recruit students for the YS3 program to meet program enrollment requirements ● Experience with team building activities to develop a sense of belonging and community ● A high regard for student potential and an ability to provide opportunities for students to develop and succeed ● Ability to work collaboratively with teams and nurture collegial relationships ● Ability to engage in community sponsored events to enhance educational experience ● Excellent written and verbal communication skills ● Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills ● Proven ability to work with a diverse population ● Current knowledge of adolescent behavior ● Reflective practice and a commitment to growth ● Ability to adapt and improve in changing situations

Responsibilities: Professional duties, included but not limited to: ● Embrace and promote the PACHS vision and mission ● Develop and maintain a strong professional and supportive relationship with each youth in the program, as an advocate and liaison between the youth-the school community-and the child welfare community. ● Establish good working relationship and effective lines of communication with all teachers and staff. ● Work closely with the YS3 Online Education Teacher to provide a team approach for student emotional and academic support. ● Work closely with school senior advisor and YS3 Coordinators to assist seniors in completing FAFSA, college applications, resume and employment applications ● Assist youth with registering for ACT/SAT ● Work with school staff to provide college employment and career preparation ● Provide regular student updates to YS3 staff ● Establish and maintain good relationships and ongoing communication with DCFS/POS case managers, GALs and foster parents, providing quarterly updates of student performance and standing ● Maintain student confidentiality ● Maintain records on student activity, unusual incidents and contacts with all child welfare supports. ● Must be on 24-hour call and carry a cell phone or mobile device, setting limits to student after hour contacts and parameters for emergency contacts. ● Monitor, record and report student daily attendance (as required), via Monthly Attendance Form and calls from ASN staff. ● Work closely with school administrators and teachers in the interviewing and selection of all YS3 students. ● Work closely with school administrators and teachers in the development of student education/graduation plans, performing and interpreting all student assessments. ● Create and facilitate a curriculum of cultural enrichment goals, objectives and activities. It is essential that this curriculum address student needs as they apply to life skill development, preparations for independence and the transition into adulthood. ● Go to the homes of all students when they fail to attend school and this absence is not excused. ● Oversee student daily and long-term compliance with the educational/graduation plan that the mentor, other school staff and student have developed. ● Mentors should model appropriate behavior, focus on a positive growth mindset, seek opportunities to build team dynamics and encourage other members of faculty. ● Attend and participate in faculty meetings, parent conferences, open house and other school functions● Perform other duties as the needs of the school and needs of the students may demand More Information:

● To apply, email your resume and cover letter to melissal@pachs-chicago.org

● Salary is based on experience with a range of 44-46K with individual health care coverage.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $44,000.00 - $46,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Health insurance

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person