Mental Health Partnership Specialist

Communities In Schools of Chicago•Chicago, IL

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

At Communities In Schools (CIS) of Chicago, we believe students can't enhance their learning when their needs are met - and that includes mental and emotional health. Every day, we partner with Chicago Public Schools (CPS) and hundreds of community organizations to bring no cost, high-quality programs directly to schools. These programs help students stay focused, engaged, and on track to graduate. During the 2025-26 school year, we'll serve over 80,000 students across 250 schools, connecting them to life-changing support-from arts and academic enrichment to health and mental wellness services. And we need your help to make it happen. We're looking for a Behavioral and Mental Health Partnership Specialist to join our team. If you're passionate about youth mental health, love building relationships, and want to play a key role in improving the well-being of thousands of Chicago students-this is your chance to make a real impact.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree required
3+ years of relevant experience-ideally in schools, nonprofits, or youth development
Strong knowledge of mental health, trauma-informed practices, and culturally responsive programming
Familiarity with CPS systems (or a willingness to learn fast)
Reliable daily access to a vehicle, a valid driver's license, and the ability to work in schools
Access to a remote workspace with internet connectivity
All final canidates are required to go through Chicago Public School Background Check Process.

Nice To Haves

A connector who believes in the power of community partnerships
Passionate about youth mental health and school wellness
A clear, thoughtful communicator-whether face-to-face, over email, or via Zoom
Organized, proactive, and always thinking two steps ahead
Comfortable with data and details, but also see the bigger picture
Motivated by mission, equity, and helping students thrive

Responsibilities

Build strong partnerships with 75+ community-based providers in areas like social emotional learning, mental health education, counseling, anti-bullying, and trauma-informed care.
Connect programs to schools, ensuring they meet each school's unique needs and align with CIS's mission and values.
Collaborate with school staff (Student Supports Managers and School Partnership Specialists) to get the right programs to the right students at the right time.
Stay in the loop on CPS priorities like the Healing-Centered Framework and promote programs that reflect inclusive, culturally affirming practices.
Evaluate, adapt, and strengthen programmatic offerings by collecting feedback, analyzing data, and making sure partnerships stay meaningful and effective.
Plan trainings and networking events that help our community partners grow, share best practices, and stay inspired.