iJAG Career Education Specialist, 9-12, Des Moines Public Schools

Position Overview

The 9th- and 12th-Grade Career Education Specialist at iJAG is a cornerstone role that guides high school students toward academic and personal excellence. This role ensures that students are placed in state-recognized work-based learning (WBL) experiences that integrate project-based learning (PBL), individual coaching, and data-driven strategies to support their learning. By collaborating closely with employer partnerships, the Specialist ensures that students are placed in real-world experiences and are well-prepared for successful futures. 

Essential Functions

Community Engagement 

• Actively cultivates and maintains robust relationships with a broad spectrum of employers, securing a variety of career exploration and skill development opportunities that align with student interests and market demands. 
• Cultivate and mobilize community resources, develop partnerships and collaborations that support educational experience, and open new pathways for iJAG students. 

 Work-based Learning:

• Designs and implements comprehensive work-based learning programs that integrate academic learning with practical workplace experiences, preparing students for life after high school by developing their professional skills and understanding industry expectations.
• Coordinates student placements in work-based learning settings, including internships and apprenticeships, that support the students' Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP) and employer needs.
• Maintain consistent communication with students throughout their WBL experiences to monitor attendance, provide coaching and support, address workplace challenges, and guide students in reflecting on their learning and skill development.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the school and employer to establish clear expectations, ensure student safety, and monitor student progress throughout the WBL experience.
• Ensure completion of all required documentation (e.g., training agreements, work permits, evaluations), and track student placements, hours, and outcomes.

Student Recruitment, Engagement, and Follow-up:

• Partner with the school administration to identify and select eligible students, and proactively promote the iJAG program within the school community to build and sustain a strong student cohort. 
• Conduct outreach and informational sessions for prospective students, their families, and school staff to communicate the benefits and opportunities of the iJAG program. 
• Provide individualized guidance and resources to support graduating seniors and recent graduates as they transition into employment, postsecondary education, military service, or training programs.
• Conduct regular outreach during the first year after graduation to monitor progress, document outcomes (e.g., employment, enrollment, certifications), and identify emerging needs or challenges.
• Connect graduates with community resources and local agencies (e.g., workforce development, mental health, housing, transportation) and encourage continued engagement through alum events, mentorship, and feedback opportunities.

Instructional Delivery and Classroom Management:

• Utilizes project-based learning (PBL) methodologies to create engaging and transformative educational experiences, seamlessly integrating classroom theory with real-world applications, thereby enhancing students’ practical understanding and skills. 
• Utilizes iJAG's competency-based approach to steer project creation and cultivate a student-centered learning environment, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and personalized growth.
• Champions student empowerment and autonomy, cultivating an inclusive learning environment that encourages teamwork and community building.
• Develop and maintain a positive, structured learning environment that promotes student engagement and participation through effective classroom management strategies, adapting techniques to meet the diverse needs of learners, and ensuring equitable access to learning opportunities.
• Implement effective behavior management plans and conflict-resolution strategies to foster a safe, respectful classroom culture, enabling students to focus on their academic and personal growth in a supportive, inclusive learning environment.

Data Management and Analysis:

• Maintains accurate student records, systematically tracking essential metrics, including attendance, academic performance, and program participation, to effectively monitor and enhance student progress.
• Skillfully analyzes data to evaluate the impact of the iJAG program on student outcomes, utilizing insights to identify areas that require targeted interventions or additional support, thereby optimizing student success.
• Manages and updates Individual Development Plans (IDPs) and Individualized Educational Plans (IEPs) for students, participating in relevant meetings to advocate and adapt educational strategies to meet the unique needs of each learner. 

Professional Development and Support:

• Collaborates with the program supervisor and school administration, leveraging collective expertise to drive the program's success and ensure it meets both educational standards and student needs effectively.
• Participate in iJAG and school district professional development activities to stay updated on best practices and continuously enhance skills and knowledge.

Requirements

Additional Requirements 

• Demonstrated proficiency in delivering content to diverse audiences and adapting teaching styles to meet the varied needs of students. 
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral.
• Skilled in leveraging data analytics to refine instructional approaches and enhance student achievement. 
• Skilled in building supportive relationships while upholding professional standards.
• Curriculum development capability and tech-savviness with Microsoft Office and Google apps.
• Ability to learn new software systems.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education, Experience, and Other Qualifications

• A bachelor's degree in social sciences, counseling, education, or a closely related discipline is required, with a master's degree strongly preferred.
• Relevant experience in secondary or post-secondary education environments, demonstrating a deep understanding of academic support systems.
• The ability to obtain an iJAG authorization within six months of hire.
• Current possession of a Work-Based Learning (WBL) Supervisor Authorization or the ability to secure an authorization within the first six months of employment.
• Commitment to iJAG’s mission and flexibility to perform diverse program roles.