Prevention Specialist

Under the general supervision of the Student Assistance Coordinator the Prevention Specialist works closely with the A2X Coordinator to plan, implement and evaluate the At Risk/Redirect program for middle school students.  He/she works with administration, A2X Counselor, faculty, counselors  & parents to address needs and follow up for the middle school at risk students and high school A2X students. This is a pro-rated 188-day position that will begin in mid-October.

• Meet with At risk middle school and high school youth who have been assigned ISS or OSS.
• Assist the A2X Coordinator with all aspects of the A2X program as necessary.
• Provide prosocial, life & critical thinking skills training for the at risk youth.
• Incorporate a restorative justice piece as applicable.
• Provide intervention, recommendation for referrals, and follow up support for students.
• Work with community resources and parents as appropriate.
• Promote proactive approaches for abstaining from ATOD through youth advocacy programs.
• Help identify at risk 8^th graders to provide seamless support for high school transition.
• Make appropriate referrals for students identified in need of treatment or therapy for chemical dependency.
• Maintain records of student referrals including tracking their success to evaluate effectiveness of the at risk/redirect and A2X program.
• Other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:

• College education (preference will be given to individuals with degrees in psychology, counseling, social work, education, health promotions, or health & human development)
• Experience working with at risk youth.
• Experience working with individuals dealing with ATOD use/addictions, violence prevention, or similar issues.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret data.
• Ability to write reports and business correspondence.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in written form.
• Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of staff, students, and the general public.

REASONING ABILITY:

• Ability to effectively problem solve.
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in various written & oral forms.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Work with little immediate supervision.
• Remain calm, fair, and courteous.
• Exercise good judgment, tact, and confidence in performing all duties.
• Good computer skills.
• Be available for some evening or weekend work.
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.