School Social Worker

Waterford Montessori Academy is seeking a School Social Worker to support K-8 students for the 2026-27 school year. This role supports the social, emotional, and behavioral well-being of students by providing direct services, consultation, and collaboration within the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). Grounded in Montessori principles, the School Social Worker helps foster a peaceful, respectful learning environment that nurtures the whole child.

Job Responsibilities:

1. Student Support and Intervention

• Provide individual and group counseling to students experiencing social, emotional, or behavioral challenges.
• Support student development in emotional regulation, conflict resolution, and positive relationship-building.
• Facilitate restorative conversations and peace circles to promote responsibility, empathy, and healing.
• Collaborate with the MTSS team to develop and implement Tier II and Tier III behavior intervention plans.
• Participate in IEP and 504 meetings; complete necessary social-emotional assessments and reports.

2. Collaboration and Family Engagement

• Work closely with Lead Teachers, Administrators, Instructional Coach, Academic Support Team, Grade Level Leads, Special Education (SE), and Student Support Team to identify and support students in need.
• Maintain strong communication with families and provide resources, referrals, and education as needed.
• Coordinate with community agencies and mental health providers to support student and family well-being.
• Promote consistent and aligned behavioral expectations rooted in grace, courtesy, and Montessori values.
• Participate in team meetings, a minimum of 1 hour per week, and as needed.

3. Montessori-Aligned Practices

• Promote a peaceful, respectful school climate through social-emotional learning rooted in Montessori philosophy.
• Support the development of independence, empathy, and self-regulation in students.
• Model and encourage calm, respectful communication and conflict resolution strategies.
• Assist in preparing a school environment that reflects order, respect, and student ownership.

4. Supervision of Behavior Teaching Assistant

• Provide training, guidance, and ongoing feedback to the Behavior Teaching Assistant.
• Oversee the day-to-day responsibilities of the assistant, ensuring alignment with intervention plans and school expectations.
• Coordinate schedules, document support services, and maintain regular check-ins to ensure consistency in behavioral support.
• Support the assistant’s development in implementing proactive strategies, positive reinforcement, and restorative practices.

Qualifications:

• Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from an accredited institution
• Full licensure (LMSW preferred) and School Social Worker approval through the state of Michigan
• Experience working with children in school settings
• Strong knowledge of trauma-informed practices, restorative justice, and behavior interventions
• Commitment to Montessori principles and whole-child development
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills

Preferred Experience:

• Experience within a Montessori or alternative education setting
• Familiarity with Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) or MTSS frameworks
• Background in family engagement, case management, or community outreach
• Leadership or supervision experience