Transitions Academy Job Coach SY26-27

Holyoke Public Schools•Holyoke, MA

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

Transitions Academy is a specialized transition program within Holyoke Public Schools that supports students ages 18–22 as they prepare for life after high school. The program focuses on building independence through employment, community access, daily living skills, self-advocacy, and post-secondary planning. Students participate in authentic work experiences, community-based instruction, and vocational training designed to help them achieve their individual transition goals and maximize independence in adulthood. The Job Coach supports students in both classroom and community-based settings by reinforcing academic, vocational, social, and independent living skills. This role works closely with the Program Manager, teachers, related service providers, families, and community employers to help students develop the skills necessary for successful employment and independent living. The ideal candidate is patient, flexible, relationship-driven, and committed to supporting students as they transition into adulthood.

Requirements

Associate’s Degree or higher; Completing at least two years, or 48 credit hours of study at an institution of higher education, OR taking and passing a formal assessment measuring one’s knowledge of and ability to assist classroom teachers in reading, writing, and mathematics. (Parapro Assessment and workKeys)
Training or experience working with children and/or adults with disabilities.
Strong written and verbal communication skills; excellent teamwork skills

Nice To Haves

Experience working in an urban setting, preferred
Experience working with diverse student populations, preferred
Bilingual applicants (Spanish) strongly encouraged to apply

Responsibilities

Work with individual students and small groups to reinforce skills and concepts introduced by teachers and program staff.
Support students in developing vocational, social, communication, and independent living skills.
Assist students in mastering workplace equipment, instructional materials, and job-related tasks.
Provide direct support to students in classroom, community, and employment settings.
Assist students with mobility, personal care, and activities of daily living as needed.
Support students during breakfast, lunch, snack, and cleanup routines.
Meet buses and assist students with arrival, departure, and daily routines.
Participate in physical education and community-based activities, including dressing appropriately to support student participation.
Assist the Program Manager, teachers, and related service providers in implementing vocational training plans and employment experiences.
Support students at job sites by modeling workplace expectations, reinforcing job skills, and promoting independence.
Monitor student performance across various work placements and community settings.
Conduct job site visits and maintain communication with employers regarding student progress.
Obtain employer feedback and evaluations to support student growth and goal attainment.
Serve as a liaison between students, employers, families, and school staff.
Identify areas where students may require additional coaching, training, or workplace accommodations.
Promote positive work habits, professionalism, punctuality, communication skills, and workplace readiness.
Assist in the implementation of behavioral support plans under the direction of program staff.
Maintain accurate behavioral logs, progress monitoring data, and required documentation.
Reinforce positive behavior strategies and support students in developing self-regulation skills.
Collect and maintain documentation necessary for program participation, work experiences, and parent/guardian permissions.
Collaborate with teachers, related service providers, families, and community partners to support student success.
Participate in team meetings, professional development, and training opportunities.
Assist with community-based instruction, field trips, vocational experiences, and other program activities.
Maintain confidentiality and uphold all district policies and procedures.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Manager or school administration.