Family Education Specialist (Part-Time, Three Positions) - Shenandoah Valley Migrant Education Program

James Madison University • Harrisonburg, VA

11d • Remote

About The Position

The Shenandoah Valley Migrant Education Program (SVMEP) is hiring for three part-time Family Education Specialist (FES) positions. These positions will each serve one of the following areas in the program’s region: Northwestern Region: Rockingham County, Shenandoah County, Winchester City, Frederick County, Augusta County, Waynesboro City, Highland County; Southern Region: Grayson County, Galax City, Carroll County, Campbell County; Eastern Region: Henrico County, Fredericksburg Count, Richmond City, Alexandria City, Cumberland County, Culpeper County, Fairfax County, Nelson County, Albemarle County. These positions are eligible for telework. Regions may shift depending on where new migrant families enroll. SVMEP provides quality academic support services & advocacy to migrant families to aid the students in achieving their educational goals. SVMEP is one of many programs within the Institute for Innovation in Health & Human Services (IIHHS). IIHHS is a forward-thinking & dynamic organization that strives to cultivate a shared sense of purpose in building healthier and safer communities where all individuals can thrive and flourish. IIHHS is housed within JMU’s College of Health & Behavioral Studies (CHBS). CHBS is committed to shaping a forward-thinking & dynamic environment by refining policies, practices, and processes that strengthen our community, drive real-world advancement, and maintain spaces conducive to individual and collective growth. Through education, scholarship, and service, individuals are inspired to make responsible and meaningful contributions to the college, campus, local community, and broader world. Join us in fostering collaboration and innovation as we grow a dynamic college that embodies an atmosphere of belonging, champions excellence, and shares a sense of purpose. JMU is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a thriving environment where a wide range of perspectives are embraced, and fairness is upheld.

Requirements

• Knowledge of family engagement, case management, and community resources that support student and family success.
• Strong communication, relationship-building, and advocacy skills when working with families, schools, and community partners.
• Ability to manage a caseload, maintain accurate records and tracking spreadsheets, and coordinate services effectively.
• Ability to work independently, solve problems, and support diverse families with professionalism and cultural sensitivity.
• Experience working with students, families, schools, or community-based programs is beneficial.
• Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.
• After accepting employment, new hires are required to complete an I-9 form and present documentation of their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. James Madison University uses the E-Verify system to confirm identity and work authorization.

Nice To Haves

• Bilingual English/Spanish skills are highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Manage a caseload of approximately 100 migrant students, providing ongoing family engagement, case management, and individualized support services.
• Conduct family intake and onboarding, including completion of enrollment and emergency documentation.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with families through regular communication, home visits, and ongoing support.
• Assess family and student needs and connect families to educational, healthcare, and community resources.
• Monitor student academic progress, attendance, and overall well-being through collaboration with families and school personnel.
• Advocate for students and families to help ensure access to appropriate educational services, supports, and opportunities.
• Serve as the primary liaison between migrant families and local schools, facilitating communication and collaborative problem-solving.
• Partner with teachers, counselors, administrators, ESL staff, and other school personnel to address academic, behavioral, attendance, and social-emotional concerns.
• Assist families in navigating school systems, procedures, and available resources.
• Coordinate referrals to community agencies and service providers, including healthcare, housing, financial assistance, mental health, and social services.
• Provide guidance and support to help families overcome barriers that impact student success and family stability.
• Maintain accurate and timely records of family contacts, services provided, referrals, outcomes, and case documentation.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of local, regional, and state resources available to migrant students and families.
• Establish and maintain partnerships with community organizations and service providers to expand access to resources and support services.
• Identify service gaps and opportunities to improve resource access and outcomes for migrant families and students.
• Participate in program reporting, data tracking, and other administrative responsibilities as assigned.

Benefits

• A Tuition Waiver Program that allows employees to have tuition waived for undergraduate and graduate level courses taken at JMU.
• Free Access to the University Recreation Center (UREC): Employees can enjoy facility access and program registration privileges at UREC and University Park. This includes the climbing wall, equipment centers, and group exercise studios.
• A variety of voluntary benefits such as Pet Insurance, Identity Theft and Legal Protection Plans, and several other supplemental benefits.
• Holiday Breaks: The university is granted 12 holidays a year.
• Talent Development Trainings: The Talent Development department offers a wide variety of personal and professional trainings, eligible for all employees to join.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed