Student Support Specialist

ACADEMY OF HOPE ADULT PUBLIC CHARTER SCHOOL • Washington, DC

5d • $58,083 - $78,298

About The Position

The Student Support Specialist plays a critical, mission-driven role in supporting adult learners by identifying barriers to success and connecting students to the academic, social, and community resources they need to persist and thrive. This role is ideal for early-career professionals interested in social work, education, counseling, human services, community engagement, or nonprofit careers, and for individuals seeking meaningful, hands-on experience working directly with adult learners.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, counseling, psychology, education, human services, or a related field OR
• At least three (3) years of relevant experience supporting individuals in areas such as housing instability, mental health, trauma-informed services, substance use recovery, or community-based support
• Strong interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple cases, deadlines, and priorities
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and culturally responsive practice

Nice To Haves

• Experience working with adult learners, opportunity youth, or underserved populations
• Knowledge of DC-area community resources and social service systems
• Experience with case management, student support services, or nonprofit education settings

Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary point of contact for learners experiencing barriers such as housing instability, transportation challenges, mental health concerns, or childcare needs
• Conduct outreach, case management, and follow-up to support learner attendance, engagement, and persistence
• Develop short- and long-term intervention plans that align with learners’ goals, strengths, and lived experiences
• Coordinate referrals to internal supports and external community-based service providers
• Facilitate small groups, workshops, seminars, and orientations that promote academic success and self-sufficiency
• Complete accurate and timely documentation, including case notes, attendance data, and outreach logs
• Conduct weekly outreach (calls, emails, texts) to re-engage learners who are at risk of disengagement
• Collaborate across departments to ensure a holistic, student-centered approach
• Participate in ongoing professional development in evidence-based student support and case management practices

Benefits

• Employees enjoy comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance; employer-paid life and disability coverage; access to 403(b) retirement matching; and eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program.
• AoH provides generous paid leave, paid holidays, and flexible scheduling aligned with program needs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level