Maya Angelou Schools/See Forever Foundation hiring Student Advocate at Maya Angelou Academy SY 23 -24 in Laurel, MD | LinkedIn (2024)

DescriptionThe OrganizationSince it began operating in 1997, the See Forever Foundation's mission has been to create learning communities in lower-income urban areas where all students, particularly those who have not succeeded in traditional schools, can succeed academically and socially. The Foundation operates the Maya Angelou Public Charter Schools in DC, as well as the Maya Angelou Academy at New Beginnings’ secure facility for committed youth in Laurel, MD. Our students develop the academic, social, and employment skills they need to build rewarding lives and promote positive change.

If you are interested in learning more about See Forever, please visit our website at www.seeforever.org.

The AcademyOur mission at the Academy is to provide a safe, nurturing, and mutually respectful environment that motivates and prepares each student to fulfill his academic or career potential. With the support of a wide circle of caring adults, students will develop the skills they need to make sound decisions and lead rewarding lives.

The TouchstoneAt the Maya Angelou Schools, the key to our success is rooted in building trusting, respectful, and nurturing relationships with each other. We strive to create safe spaces for all to be able to reach their limitless potential. We are at our best when we work together to ensure the unique needs of our community are met. We empower each other to grow successfully so we can see forever! This is how we live the Maya Way, even when no one is watching.

Position OverviewStudent Advocates provide students with consistent guidance and support from their arrival at Maya Angelou Academy through 90 days after their departure from New Beginnings. Each Student Advocate will guide and monitor the progress of 10-20 students, providing guidance and requesting interventions as deemed necessary to support the student.

RequirementsResponsibilitiesSpecific Responsibilities Will Include But Not Be Limited To

• Introducing students to Maya Angelou Academy, conducting welcome interviews, tours, discussions about school culture and expectations, and group sessions and team-building activities
• Introducing students to program materials and tools, portfolios, rubrics, expectations, and class schedules
• Serving as the chair of the Student Support Team for each student on the Student Advocate’s caseload
• Meeting regularly with each student during their entire tenure
• Helping each student to establish consistent behavioral standards and providing real-time interventions in the event of behavioral problems or disagreements
• Engaging parents and students in discussions regarding behavior and progress
• Facilitating each student’s transition upon release
• Coordinating with the school professionals and parents to design and implement an individual plan for each student
• Managing the details of the individual plan and working with parents, school staff, and community partners to ensure that each student is prepared for reintegration
• Maintaining a working knowledge of community resources available to students and families
• Making site visits to each student’s educational or vocational placement site
• Facilitating trainings and professional development workshops as needed

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, social work, sociology, social science or related content area (required)
• Experience working with incarcerated or opportunity youth (preferred)
• Experience maintaining and recording data in a timely manner

Site DescriptionThe Maya Angelou Academy at New Beginnings is the long-term juvenile facility located in Laurel, MD. Maya Angelou Academy at New Beginnings serves youth ages 13-21. The school is located inside New Beginnings Youth Development Center. Our students develop the academic, social, and employment skills they need to build rewarding lives and promote positive change.

Salary And BenefitsOur salaries are comparable to those of other public schools in the District of Columbia area. In addition, See Forever offers a robust benefits plan, including health care coverage, HSA/FSA and dependent care accounts, voluntary dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability options, commuter benefits, a 401k retirement savings plan, student loan refinancing options, and the opportunity to positively impact students with a broad range of experiences and backgrounds.

See Forever is an equal-opportunity employer. We believe a diverse staff is a better, more effective staff.