Family School Liaison Social Worker

at  Edmonton Catholic Schools

Edmonton Catholic Schools is a large urban school division whose mission is to provide a Catholic education that inspires students to learn and that prepares them to live fully and to serve God in one another. The Division is comprised of over 44,000 students and 5,000 employees in 95 schools plus other sites.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Degree in Social Work, plus three years directly related experience
• Full registration with the Alberta College of Social Workers (General Practice Permit) is mandatory
• Valid Class 5 drivers license is required
• Group management and facilitation experience
• Knowledge of various community agencies and early childhood and adolescent development, requirements of students with diverse needs, current parenting practices individual and family therapy, group dynamics, different theories and methods of communication
• Knowledge of emotional/behavioural disorders, developmental delays, suicide prevention/intervention, adolescent relationships, inclusive education, family violence, poverty, addictions, bereavement, and cultural diversity
• Knowledge of the challenges confronting immigrant families including settlement and school integration issues, immigration trends and policies, community settlement programs and resources
• Knowledge of and experience with programs and services provided by governmental, settlement, and community organizations
• Knowledge of local community resources, education, and social services
• Working knowledge of cross-cultural competencies and training
• Knowledge records management principles and FOIP Legislation
• Knowledge of workplace safety and awareness of Occupational Health and Safety regulations
• General knowledge of the Division and department operations, business, goals, and objectives
• Advanced problem-solving and needs assessment skills
• Strong mediation, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills and the ability to influence decision-making
• Ability to manage crisis situations efficiently and effectively
• Ability to establish rapport and develop positive working relationships between stakeholders
• Management of complex stakeholder relationships
• Excellent oral and written communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of clients
• Excellent organizational and time management skills and the ability to work within crisis situations
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to anticipate issues and concerns and facilitate proactive responses
• Strong presentation skills and the ability to relate to a varied audience
• Strong teamwork, consultation, and facilitation skills
  Edmonton Catholic Schools is committed to maintaining a respectful and inclusive workplace that welcomes and values candidates from diverse backgrounds. We hire employees of all faiths for non-teacher positions.
  As a Catholic School Division receiving public funding, our schools and departments are imbued with our Catholic Faith. Candidates are expected to exhibit respect and sensitivity towards our Catholic beliefs and practices embraced by both students and staff.
  Edmonton Catholic Schools offers a comprehensive benefits program based on contract status as part of its total compensation package.
  Before employment, successful candidates will be required to submit a Police Information Check and Intervention Record Check dated within six months of hiring.
  Due to the high volume of applications received, only qualified candidates who are shortlisted will be contacted.

• Conduct individualized assessments of students in consultation with the parents, guardians, and the school
• Determine the level of service required in each case
• Establish action plans and implement goals with students to address identified areas using Individualized Program Plans and Division assessment
• Monitor and document the impact of supports
• Liaise with therapeutic specialists, Inclusive Education staff, and community supports to align and collaborate on multi-disciplinary approaches
• Liaise with schools and families to facilitate increased positive contact, communication, and understanding of individual student’s needs and circumstances
• Provide parents with ideas and strategic information on issues dealing with cultural differences including parenting in two cultures through ongoing communication and providing direction to resources.
• Offer social services, information, and referrals to students, families, and schools such as student diagnosis, community resources, counselling, recreation, and other supports
• Participate as a member of educational support teams to assist students and their families in academic, behavioral, social, and emotional growth
• Conduct home visits to support family connection to school and student success
• Provide input into strategic planning, goals and objectives Offer social services, information, and referrals to students, families, and schools such as student diagnosis, community resources, counselling, recreation, and other supports
• Provide crisis intervention and prevention to students and families including involvement of Alberta Children’s Services, Alberta Justice and Solicitor General, Alberta Health Services, and Edmonton Police Services
• Develop, organize, implement, promote, and facilitate Family programming on a wide range of topics.