Description/Job Summary

The goal of the truancy intervention program is to improve school attendance and promote the academic success of compulsory-aged school children, Kindergarten through 12th grade, identified as truant per the attendance policy of their school district and the PA Department of Education. Caseworkers will provide direct service to these children and their families and will work toward strengthening the cooperative relationship between the family and the school. Services remain open for a minimum of one academic quarter; summer support is offered as needed.

The truancy intervention program serves the 12 public school districts in Lackawanna County. Caseworkers have identified coverage areas; however, remain flexible in case assignment. Typical business hours are Monday-Friday, 9:00 - 5:00; however, must remain flexible to provide optimal service delivery. This position has a hybrid work environment, primarily office-based with some work from home flexibility. This position reports directly to the Truancy Intervention Program Supervisor.

Responsibilities/Duties

Administrative

• Adheres to established regulations, policies, and procedures of the overall agency and their specific component.

• Interprets agency programs, policies, and/or procedures to individuals, providers, and other community organizations

• Attends seminars, conferences, and training to enhance skill and job performance

Direct Service

• Makes contact with family and referral sources within three days of case assignment.

• Completes an Intake session, including an individual, family, and educational assessment within one week of case assignment

• Develops a truancy intervention plan that aligns with established OYFS goals

• Provides on-going in-person and telephone contact with the family

Case Management

• Provides advocacy and supportive services to the child and their family

• Works cooperatively with the school and other service providers to meet the needs of the family

• Attends School Attendance Improvement Plan (SAIP) meetings and other school-related meetings

• Works cooperatively with the magisterial court, truancy court, JPO, and/or OYFS

• Provides testimony in court as required

• Links and refers the family to local community resources

• Completes concise and correct documentation in a time-sensitive manner.

• Completes monthly reporting, statistics, and discharge paperwork in the identified timeframes.

Supervision

• This position reports to the Program Supervisor for supervision and direction.

• Meets minimally bi-weekly for formal supervision with Truancy Intervention Supervisor; requests additional supervision as needed

• Participates in monthly staff meeting with other truancy intervention caseworkers and supervisor

• Performs other related duties as requested or assigned.

Miscellaneous

• Participates in the holiday toy program

• Participates in outreach efforts and community events

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Social Work or Human Services-related field

• Casework experience a plus

• Must possess a Valid PA Driver's License and have access to a vehicle during business hours

• Proof of current ChildLine, PA State Police, and FBI background checks within last 24 calendar months or to be completed by employer prior to beginning employment

• Proof of completed Foundations Training (formerly Charting the Course) or to be completed concurrently with employment

• Proof of completed Mandated Reporter Training within last 24 calendar months or to be completed upon employment

• Employer-provided VIRTUS training

Salary

• 40,000, English-speaking

• 42,000, Bi-lingual speaking