QUALIFICATIONS

• University Degree in a related field (e.g., Social Work preferred ) with two years successful counselling experience with children and youth;
• Demonstrated capability of working effectively with hard to manage youth;
• Knowledge of the related TDSB policies, procedures and protocols, the Education Act, and other relevant legislation;
• Excellent interpersonal skills;
• Ability to work co-operatively as part of an interdisciplinary team including teachers, principals, support staff and community agency personnel; and
• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office, student information systems etc.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS

• Provision of own vehicle for Board business; requires a valid Ontario driver’s license.
• Requires regular travel.
  Travel: This position requires travel to various schools and use of car is required. Employees shall receive a monthly Travel Allowance in accordance with the Collective Agreement.

OVERALL PURPOSE

Reporting to the Manager, Social Work and Attendance Services, the Attendance Counsellor will respond to referrals by conducting home visits, interviews and counselling of students in order to determine and address factors contributing to poor school attendance.
The Attendance Counsellor will ensure the provisions of the Education Act regarding Attendance, the Enrolment Register Instructions and TDSB Policy and Procedures for Attendance are followed.

SUMMARY OF DUTIES

• Assess school attendance problems of students;
• Formulate and implement action plans to support students;
• Conduct home visits and provide counsel to families;
• Investigate cases of non-attendance of compulsory school-aged students;
• Provide consultation, referral and counselling services to students and families;
• Liaise with school, home and community services;
• Consult with Principals, Teachers and other Board personnel on related matters;
• Process paperwork and initiate an Attendance Review Committee meeting for students not in compliance with compulsory attendance regulations;
• Follow up with students who have been through the court process including liaison with Social Workers, School Administrators and Court Liaison Workers to ensure compliance with school attendance plan;
• Maintain and ensure confidentiality of professional records;
• Prepare reports and compile statistics as required;
• Attend and participate in meetings as required; and
• Other duties as assigned by the Manager.