This position exists to perform specialized social work services regarding community engagement and partnerships between Polk County Public Schools and various community agencies, including, but not limited to, the court system, the Department of Children and Families (DCF), the HEARTH Project, Heartland for Children and other stakeholders as appropriate. Specialized social work services that strengthen community engagement and partnerships are for the benefit of all students and families in Polk County Public Schools. The intent is to provide needed records, support, case management and other social work services for the juvenile justice system and other youth at risk for school failure. The Community Outreach/Social Work Coordinator is also intended to improve partnerships within the community through the T.A.S.S.E.L Project and other special projects related to the support of social work services focused on identifying barriers to attendance and promoting positive educational outcomes for all students.

The Community Outreach/Social Work Coordinator provides specialized social work services including advocacy, consultation, education, and awareness within the court system and among various community agencies to engage stakeholders in order to improve student outcomes. The position will act as an advocate/ liaison and coordinate, oversee, and establish rapport with stakeholders by engaging them in social work initiatives. Participates and engages in the juvenile court process, local community meetings and events while providing excellent public speaking and facilitation skills. Collects information, collaborates with and supports other social workers and Student Services staff in assessing students' basic and everyday needs. Collaborates and intervenes with community agencies, organizations, clubs, faith communities, and individuals to access services and supports for financial, physiological, educational, mental health and social needs for Polk County Public Schools' student and their families.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of social work, mental health, public service and/or education including developmental, physical, social/emotional needs and abilities of students, community service and cultural diversity. Is familiar with community resources and how to access them. Utilizes best practices of social work as defined by National Association of Social Workers and the School Social Work Association of America. Complies with legal and ethical standards of the National Association of Social Workers. Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills.

Outstanding interpersonal and problem-solving skills are required to work effectively with students, families, school personnel and community agencies. Ability to plan, develop, implement and evaluate programs or services. Advocates for social work services; attends to detail; completes tasks in a timely manner; organizes and sets priorities; works independently. Exercises good judgment and maintains appropriate confidentiality as a social worker. Proficient in current technology and software skills; provides leadership and professional learning through the lens of a social worker. Bilingual/biliterate preferred.

Graduation from an accredited college oráuniversity with a master's degree in social work (MSW) is required.áA minimum of 3 years' experience as a social worker is preferred. Licensure through the State of Florida as a social worker (LCSW) is preferred. Applicants must be certified or be eligible for certification as a School Social Worker by the Florida Department of Education.

Requires sitting, standing, walking and moving about to coordinate work. Requires driving a van to pick up donations. Requires the use of alternative communication systems, such as electronic mail, telephones and computers. Requires coordination of work task priorities, setting goals, and meeting deadlines. Requires face-to-face discussions and contact with individuals and/or teams. Requires work with students, internal contacts and external contact with the public.

Requires working indoors and sometimes outdoor conditions. Requires the ability to lift, carry, move and/or position objects on a regular basis, weighing up to 50 pounds. Requires travel to schools, community locations, worksites and students' homes within the district.