About the job
Onward Search is a specialized education staffing and talent solutions company that helps educators, therapists, and school health professionals find top jobs with the nation's top schools. We are currently seeking a dedicated School Social Worker for a contract in the Greater Chicago Illinois area approximately 45 minutes north of the city of Chicago.
The School Social Worker will provide comprehensive services to students, families, and school staff to address barriers to learning, promote mental health, and enhance academic achievement. This role requires collaboration with educators, administrators, and community resources to foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide direct counseling services to students, including individual and group sessions, to address social, emotional, and behavioral needs.
- Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and parents to create individualized education plans (IEPs) or 504 Plans for students with special needs.
- Conduct assessments and develop intervention plans to address issues such as truancy, bullying, crisis intervention, and family challenges.
- Serve as a liaison between the school, families, and community organizations to connect students with additional resources.
- Educate staff and families on mental health, coping strategies, and available support systems.
- Promote a positive school climate through the implementation of restorative practices, peer mediation, or social-emotional learning (SEL) initiatives.
- Maintain accurate and confidential records in compliance with federal, state, and district regulations.
- Provide crisis intervention and support in emergency situations.
Qualifications
- Master's degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited institution.
- Current Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with a School Social Worker endorsement.
- Experience working with children and adolescents in an educational setting is preferred.
- Strong understanding of state and federal laws related to student welfare and special education (e.g., IDEA, Section 504).
- Excellent interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively with diverse populations and multidisciplinary teams.
Why Apply:
If you are passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of students and possess the qualifications we are looking for, we encourage you to apply today! This is a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the development of future generations while working in a collaborative, innovative environment.