School Social Worker

Position Type: Student Support Services/Social Worker Date Posted: 4/15/2026 Location: Area Learning Center (High-Needs School) Waseca Area Learning Center Position: School Social Worker Reports To: ALC Principal Job Summary The School Social Worker contributes to a comprehensive school social work program addressing students' academic, career, and personal/social development. This role is designed to meet the unique needs of an Area Learning Center (ALC) population by removing barriers to learning, supporting mental health, and fostering student engagement. The social worker provides programming and direct services, including, but not limited to, conflict resolution, coping and refusal skills, character education, diversity awareness, and study skills. Essential Functions Student Support & InterventionProvide individual and small group counseling based on student needsConduct risk assessments and provide crisis intervention as neededDevelop and implement individualized student support plansSupport students experiencing challenges such as substance use, trauma, or housing instability Family & Community EngagementConsult with parents, teachers, administrators, and other stakeholders to support student successConnect students and families with school and community resourcesFacilitate family meetings and maintain ongoing communication with caregiversEncourage parent and community involvement Collaboration & School SupportWork collaboratively with school staff and community partnersParticipate in multidisciplinary teams (IEP/504, Student Support Teams, restorative practices)Develop and maintain positive professional relationshipsSupport staff with strategies for student engagement and behavior Attendance & EngagementLead the ALC attendance review processDevelop strategies to re-engage students who are chronically absent or disengagedAddress barriers impacting attendance and academic progress Programming & Instructional SupportCoordinate and deliver social and emotional learning (SEL) programmingPlan and present lessons or workshops to small and large groupsCoordinate advanced academic testing programs (AP, ACT, ASVAB) School Climate & SupervisionPromote a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environmentAssist with supervision during non-academic times and activitiesFacilitate restorative practices and conflict resolution Communication & ProfessionalismCommunicate effectively with students, families, staff, and community partnersDemonstrate professionalism, ethical practices, and confidentialityManage a high-volume workload and prioritize tasks effectively Other FunctionsWork effectively with students from diverse cultural, economic, and ability backgroundsParticipate in professional development and school activitiesSupport extracurricular and student engagement activities as directedPerform other duties as assigned Knowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesAbility to build and maintain effective relationships with students, families, and staffStrong communication skills (oral and written)Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environmentKnowledge of trauma-informed practices, adolescent development, and restorative approachesAbility to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment QualificationsBachelor's degree in Social Work or related fieldMinnesota certification as a School Social Worker or School Counselor, or the ability to obtain Tier 2 licensure Physical RequirementsOccasionally lift and carry up to 25 poundsStand for extended periods (up to one hour)Stoop, bend, reach, and grasp objectsDemonstrate fine motor skills and manual dexterityAbility to see, hear, and communicate effectivelyWork in a typical school environment with minimal physical discomforts Application Procedures Please include three letters of recommendation addressed to Mandi Nohner with your online application. For questions, contact: Email: nohm@waseca.k12.mn.us Phone: (507) 833-0779