Youth Advocate - Education Law Unit

JOB SUMMARY

Provide advocacy services to eligible youth and/or parents for The Legal Aid Society of Rochester’s (LASROC) Education Law Unit. Advocacy services include representation at school conferences, suspension hearings,  and Committee on Special Education (CSE) meetings, as well as the provision of information, referral, and technical assistance to parents, youth, and community professionals. Additionally, this person will participate in community outreach, education, and training. Additional duties could include assistance and support to the Education Law Unit.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Provide direct advocacy services to youth and families, including representation at school conferences, suspension hearings, and CSE meetings.
• Conduct intake interviews and/or review intake information to identify case goals and objectives.
• Respond to telephone and email requests for services by providing information, referral, and technical assistance.
• Review and analyze third-party records relevant to client advocacy matters.
• Prepare documents, case materials, evidence, and witnesses for hearings and meetings.
• Advocate for resolution of cases consistent with client-defined goals and objectives.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and timely case notes documenting all client contact and services provided.
• Maintain regular communication with clients and ensure timely follow-up on inquiries and case updates.
• Participate in community outreach, education, and training initiatives with community partners.
• Travel to school districts and related sites to conduct investigations and provide representation and advocacy services.
• Participate in office functions, including staff meetings, trainings, and organizational activities.
• Complete monthly reports documenting advocacy activity, including number of individuals served and types of services provided.

OTHER DUTIES

• Participate in substantive training in New York State and Federal Education Law.
• Meet regularly with the Program Director for case review and supervision.
• Support the Education Law Unit with additional tasks as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Director.
• Participate in ongoing professional development opportunities.

EDUCATION, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Education, or related field required; or Bachelor’s degree in any field with relevant human services or legal experience.
• Strong knowledge of or ability to learn New York State and Federal Education Law.
• Proficiency with technology, including Microsoft 365 and case management systems.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• High level of initiative, self-motivation, and independence.
• Strong advocacy, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to engage respectfully and empathetically with diverse youth and family populations.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, school districts, and community partners.
• Valid New York State driver’s license and ability to travel as required.
• Ability to communicate in a language other than English preferred.
• Commitment to social justice and a passion for serving underprivileged communities.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• Extended periods of sitting at a desk or workstation while performing administrative tasks.
• Regular use of computers and other office equipment, requiring manual dexterity and visual concentration.
• Occasionally required to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
• Mobility within the office environment to attend meetings, training sessions, or other events.
• Ability to communicate effectively with associates, supervisors, and external stakeholders in person, over the phone, or via email.
• Office-based environment with standard office equipment and ergonomic furniture.
• Exposure to typical office noises such as phone calls, conversations, and office equipment operation.
• Work will be performed in an in-office environment.
• Occasional travel may be required for attending training sessions, conferences, or other related events.

Benefits:

• Hybrid Work schedule
• Paid Lunch Hour
• Employer contributions toward health and dental insurance plans
• Up to:
  • 15 days of vacation to start (based on experience)
  • 96 hours of sick leave
  • 48 hours of personal time
  • 14 paid holidays a year
  • $600 per year internet stipend
  • 3% match on the 401(k) or Roth 401(k) plan of your choice
• Language differential for being proficient in a program-relevant language
• Professional development opportunities
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualifying employer

The Legal Aid Society of Rochester, NY, provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Salary : $47,000 - $54,500