School Based Family Services Specialist for Wewoka Public Schools

Position Category Student Support Services
Position Type School Based Family Specialist
Posting Start Date
Posting End Date
Position Start Date
School District Wewoka
City, State

Wewoka, OK
United States
Description

Wewoka Public Schools is seeking a School Based Family Services Specialist.  The School-Based Family Services Specialist (SBFS) is responsible for linking families and children with helpful services, providing support, and fostering a collaborative environment between the school, families, and Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS). The role requires strong problem solving skills, extensive knowledge of social services, and the ability to work independently.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Service Coordination and Delivery:

                                Work onsite at the school, maintaining designated office hours.

      Identify and assess the needs of students, connecting them with school, community, or interagency services.

  • Provide social-emotional support to students as needed.
  • Make home visits and transport children when required.
  • Assist families with applications for services such as TANF, SNAP, Child Care, and Medicaid.

Support and Advocacy:

 Act as a liaison among OKDHS, schools, families, and community partners.  Empowering and strengthening families through provision of information, education, resources, and options.

  • Support school staff and collaborate on referrals for allegations of abuse or neglect.  Facilitate communication and cooperation among school personnel, families, and OKDHS.

Community Resource Development:

                               Develop and convene community support groups.

  • Assist in creating specialized programs within schools (e.g., tutoring, attendance support, family engagement).

     Build connections with community partners and coordinate resources to fill gaps in services.

Confidentiality and Accountability:

                               Maintain confidentiality in accordance with laws and regulations.

  • Attend all required trainings and stay updated on relevant OKDHS and educational policies.
  • Maintain open communication in collaboration with OKDHS partners.

Event Participation and Connection:

 Participate in school and community events to provide information about available services and build connections with community partners.

  • Assist families with referrals to health-related services and other state benefits.  Provide ongoing support and follow-up to ensure family needs are continuously met.

 
Required Qualifications Education and Experience:
Bachelor's degree or experience in social work, Human Services or related field Relevant experience in social work, particularly with children and families. Experience in a school-based or educational setting preferred.
Knowledge and Skills:
Strong understanding of OKDHS Child Welfare and Adult and Family Services Programs (TANF, SNAP, Child care, Medicaid).
Ability to assess and address the needs of students and families.
Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills, particularly in stressful situations.
Effective communication and interpersonal skills for collaborating with multiple stakeholders.
Knowledge of confidentiality laws related to children's issues and OKDHS policies. Ability to work within and navigate a variety of different online systems, platforms, and software.
Personal Attributes:
Empathetic and Culturally Sensitive: Deep empathy and cultural sensitivity towards the diverse needs of families and children, fostering trust and understanding in all interactions.
Organized and Multitasking: Highly organized and excel at managing multiple tasks simultaneously, ensuring that no detail is overlooked.
Committed to Support: Deeply passionate to supporting at-risk children and families, and dedicated to improving their well-being, always prioritizing their needs and advocating for their best interests.
Proactive and Independent: Initiative taker and proactive in addressing challenges, comfortable working independently with minimal supervision.
Include the following materials with your application: Cover Letter
Include the following materials with your application: Resume
Include the following materials with your application: Transcripts
Include the following materials with your application: Reference List
Application Instructions Email materials to Pat Hensley, Special Education Director, at pathensley@wps.k12.ok.us
For more detailed information please email Pat Hensley.
Contact Name Pat Hensley, Special Education Director
Contact Email pathensley@wps.k12.ok.us