Education Specialist

Bethany Christian Services USA • Kentwood, MI

9d

About The Position

Bethany Christian Services is seeking an Education Specialist/Medical Coordinator to support youth in its program. The role develops and facilitates ESL classes, study activities, and life skills curriculum; tracks educational progress and participation; and coordinates with schools, case managers, mentors, and other community resources. It also supports residents’ medical care by organizing appointments, providing transportation, monitoring medications, arranging refills, and communicating follow-up needs to the team. The specialist participates in treatment and staff meetings, contributes observations and recommendations about residents’ treatment, maintains records consistent with licensing and DHS standards, and prepares for supervision with the Home Coordinator. The position may require work on nights, weekends, and holidays, and responsibilities may vary according to program needs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Services, Recreation Therapy, Education, or an equivalent field from an accredited college.
• Previous work experience in community education and/or child welfare.
• Ability to complete 40 hours of annual training.
• Knowledge of the U.S. public school system.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and listening skills, with cross-cultural sensitivity.
• Knowledge of current recreation therapy principles, therapeutic interventions, and group counseling techniques.
• Maturity and stable judgment.
• Ability to pass an annual TB test and document the choice to receive or decline hepatitis immunization.
• Ability to pass required medical examinations and physically perform essential job functions, including physical restraints of a resident.
• Proof of immunity to vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases as specified: Varicella, MMR, Tdap, and annual influenza vaccination during flu season.
• Computer skills sufficient to perform essential functions, including knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite.
• At least 21 years old, with a valid driver’s license and at least three years of driving experience in the U.S. to operate a vehicle on behalf of Bethany.
• Ability to pass a Motor Vehicle Records check and maintain a reliable vehicle with proof of adequate insurance coverage.
• Ability to pass a criminal history screen, including state and local child protection agency registries.
• Subscription to and integration of the agency Statement of Faith, Mission Statement, and Commitment to Unity.

Nice To Haves

• Previous work experience with refugees and minority families.

Responsibilities

• Develop and facilitate ESL classes and study activities for youth in the program.
• Document youth education progress and communicate with residents’ schools to support consistent progress.
• Develop and implement life skills curriculum aligned with program and agency expectations.
• Track youth attendance and participation in classes and report this information to the assigned Case Manager.
• Communicate with collateral resources as indicated by client needs and supervision.
• Provide educational materials for residents to use in the home.
• Administer and assess English and Life Skills needs tests for newly arriving residents and at graduation.
• Assess and match mentors with mentees.
• Complete case recordings in compliance with state licensing and DHS standards.
• Prepare for and participate in supervision with the Home Coordinator.
• Recommend treatment approaches and interventions during staff meetings and conferences, presenting formulations and behavioral observations regarding residents’ treatment.
• Organize and maintain records of clients’ medical care needs, schedule appointments, transport clients, and communicate aftercare needs to the team.
• Monitor prescribed and over-the-counter medications and arrange necessary refills.
• Provide follow-up care for appointments.
• Participate in treatment team meetings and attend staff meetings to coordinate services.
• Stay informed about and seek community resources when needed.
• Participate in Bethany-sponsored events when required or requested.
• Complete other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match eligibility.
• Generous time off, including 11 paid holidays, PTO Your Way, paid parental leave, and separate sick and paid absence banks.
• Education reimbursement for eligible employees.
• Employee assistance and wellness program.
• Employer-paid long-term disability and group term life insurance.
• Training, professional development, and career growth opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time