Child Welfare and Attendance Coordinator

Position Description: 

Reporting to the Executive Director of Special Programs in the District Affairs Unit, the Child Attendance and Welfare Officer is responsible for enforcing student attendance laws, supporting student welfare, and addressing truancy concerns. This position ensures compliance with state attendance regulations, promotes student engagement, and works collaboratively with schools, families, and community agencies to remove barriers to consistent school attendance.

Reports To:

Executive Director of Special Programs

Scope of Responsibility:

• Monitor and enforce student attendance in accordance with Louisiana Compulsory School Attendance Law and Jefferson Parish Schools policies and procedures
• Investigate cases of excessive absences and tardiness, including conducting home visits when appropriate
• Maintain accurate documentation of attendance interventions, parent communications, and case outcomes
• Coordinate and conduct attendance conferences with students, parents/guardians, and school personnel
• Issue notices and referrals related to truancy, including referrals to Family in Need of Services (FINS) and other legal interventions when necessary
• Serve as liaison between schools, families, juvenile courts, and community agencies regarding attendance and student welfare matters
• Provide guidance to school administrators and staff on attendance laws, policies, and best practices
• Collaborate with social service agencies to connect families with resources that address barriers to attendance (e.g., transportation, housing, mental health services)
• Support schools in implementing intervention strategies to improve attendance, including early warning systems and tiered supports
• Organize and participate in attendance team meetings at designated schools and at the district level
• Attend monthly Behavior Interventionist meetings; share data, best practices, and serve as a coach to school-based staff
• Assist with student placement considerations when attendance concerns impact school assignment
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings related to student welfare, including those involving discipline, safety, and alternative programs
• Promote public awareness of the importance of regular school attendance
• Maintain confidentiality and ensure compliance with FERPA and other applicable laws
• Make routine school site visits to support attendance initiatives and provide on-site assistance
• Prepare reports and data summaries related to attendance trends and interventions
• Perform all other duties as assigned by the Executive Director of Special Programs and Chief of District Affairs

Skills and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required
• Knowledge of Louisiana attendance laws, including RS 17:221 and related statutes
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with students, families, and diverse stakeholders
• Ability to handle sensitive situations with professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple cases and competing priorities
• Collaborative management style with experience working across schools and agencies
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation

Desirable Qualifications:

• Experience working in education, social work, law enforcement, or juvenile services
• Teacher certification or background in school administration
• Experience with truancy intervention programs or court systems (e.g., FINS)
• Bilingual skills

Physical Involvement:

Sitting is required for part of each work day. Must be able to operate office equipment. Standing, walking, reaching, bending, and lifting up to 10 pounds is sometimes required. Ability to provide own transportation to schools, homes, court locations, and meeting sites. Mobility skills necessary to access a variety of work locations.

Compensation:

JP Schools offers a competitive salary that is commensurate with experience. JP Schools also offers a competitive benefits package.