Elementary School Social Worker (2025-2026)

The Elementary School Social Worker at East Harlem Scholars Academies is responsible for developing, coordinating, and delivering youth and family-centered interventions. This role includes conducting individual and group counseling, providing crisis intervention, and implementing behavioral intervention plans to support students' academic and emotional needs.

To qualify for the position of Elementary School Social Worker at East Harlem Scholars Academies, candidates need a Master’s Degree or higher with relevant LMSW certification. Additionally, three years of experience in educational settings, strong clinical skills, and proficiency in crisis intervention are highly valued. Spanish-speaking ability is a plus.

East Harlem Scholars Academies is committed to the continuous improvement of its staff, offering professional development opportunities, weekly clinical supervision, and resources to support social workers in enhancing their skills and adapting to the unique needs of their students and families.

An Elementary School Social Worker at East Harlem Scholars Academies plays a crucial role in fostering academic success and emotional well-being. By providing individualized support and facilitating positive relationships within the community, social workers contribute significantly to students' overall growth and resilience.

The work environment at East Harlem Scholars Academies is collaborative and focused on racial equity and success for all students. Social workers are encouraged to engage with teachers, families, and the broader community, creating a culture of excellence and support for students.

When discussing crisis intervention, it's important to emphasize your ability to assess the situation quickly and provide support in a calm, professional manner. Share your experiences using evidence-based practices and how you collaborate with emergency resources when necessary.

In your answer, highlight specific instances where you've successfully engaged with and supported students from diverse backgrounds. Discuss the strategies you used to understand and respect their unique needs, perspectives, and cultural contexts.

When tackling this question, describe your process for assessing student needs and how you gather input from families, teachers, and the students themselves. Highlight your ability to set measurable goals and your commitment to following up on progress.

Describe your methods for building rapport and trust with students and families, whether it be through regular communication, attending school events, or providing workshops. Emphasize the importance of collaboration and being approachable.

Share your understanding of racial equity and its importance in education, along with specific examples of how you've integrated these principles into your work as an Elementary School Social Worker. Highlight how you strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment for all students.

Choose an example that reflects your innovation and problem-solving skills. Detail the steps you took, how you involved other stakeholders, and the outcomes achieved, stressing the impact on the students' lives.

Discuss your techniques for identifying at-risk students and the interventions you've successfully initiated. Mention any collaboration with teaching staff and parents to ensure a holistic approach is taken towards student academic growth.

Explain how you would work with teachers, staff, and community organizations to foster a community around the students' educational journey. Share examples of events or initiatives you've championed to enhance community involvement.

Describe how you set outcomes for your sessions and how you gather feedback from students and families. Discuss the adjustments you make based on this feedback to continuously improve your approach.

In your response, talk about conflict resolution strategies you employ that promote understanding and empathy among students. Share your approach to mediating disputes and teaching students valuable life skills.