Community Outreach Worker

Work Location: SchoolsPlus Program

Revised January 30, 2020

Community Outreach Worker

PROGRAM Title Community Outreach Worker - SchoolsPlus Program - PROGRAM Scope of Responsibilities The Community Outreach Worker shall be responsible for developing a proactive approach to connecting families and community groups in order to facilitate support and services to students. Working with an assigned group of schools, the Community Outreach Worker will establish an active network of community groups representing the diverse nature of the community and build bridges to connect families and schools with the ultimate goal of improving student success. Consistent with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and the Halifax Regional Centre for Education policies, the Community Outreach Worker will work within an established accountability framework to ensure effective connections and communication exist between the school, the families and other appropriate community agencies. Working collaboratively with Principals and other staff, the Community Outreach Worker will demonstrate a strong commitment to the planning for improvement process in support of student learning and reports directly to a designated SchoolsPlus Assistant Lead. Competencies Required The Community Outreach Worker shall have the following competencies:
(a) Knowledge of community-based resources and supports;
(b) The ability to establish and engage with families and community agencies in order to support student success;
(f) The ability to formulate initiatives which support academic and social success for students;
(g) Strong interpersonal and oral communication skills;
(h) The ability to maintain current and accurate client records;
(i) Demonstrated knowledge of collaborative practice including negotiation, conflict resolution and mediation skills in working with staff of the Halifax Regional Centre for Education, students, parent/guardians, community agencies and government departments;
(j) The ability to work both independently and as a collaborative multi-disciplinary team member;
(k) The ability to work effectively in flexible work situations;
(n) The desire and ability to engage in continuing education and professional development;
(o) The ability to maintain and promote confidentiality.

JOB DESCRIPTION #215

2
Revised January 30, 2020

**Qualifications**:
(a) Undergraduate degree in Social Sciences (i.e. Sociology, Psychology, Community Studies, Family Studies) or equivalent through a combination of experience and a relevant Diploma/Certificate from a recognized community college;
(b) Minimum three (3) years successful experience working with students and their families;
(c) Direct knowledge and experience of communities served considered an asset;
(d) Experience with collaborative practices and involvement in community development initiatives, community boards and/or hubs considered an asset;
(e) Valid Nova Scotia driver's license and reliable vehicle.

Specific Job Components

A Community Outreach Worker in the Halifax Regional Centre for Education shall perform tasks as are assigned by the Assistant Lead SchoolsPlus for the Family of Schools. These tasks may vary, from time to time, with the evolution of the organization and may include but not be limited to the following:
(a) Establish positive relationships with children, youth and families as identified as needing support;
(b) Work collaboratively with families to assist them in understanding and supporting their child's/children's development;
(c) Establish collaborative relationships with community and governmental groups that support children, youth and their families to promote success;
(d) Provide opportunities for the family and the school to meet and support their children;
(e) Visit homes when required to provide the link between the school and the home to support student success;
(f) Maintain current and accurate records for SchoolsPlus clients;
(g) Facilitate/mediate meetings between students, families, school staff and relevant community partners;
(h) Facilitate group sessions and workshops for families in areas of identified need;
(i) Develop effective communication links with students, schools and communities;
(j) Work collaboratively with the school staff to develop plans and initiatives to support students such as:

- Assist in running school groups to support identified students outside of the regular classroom hours such as lunchtime, recess and after school;
- Upon request from teachers, support and/or co-facilitate sessions on topics such as self-esteem, social skills, and decision making as deemed necessary;
(k) Utilize student services information systems to maintain electronic student information files as required;
(l) Other duties as assigned.