Department: Student Services

Location: Districtwide
Salary: $32/hour

Overview:

Watertown Public Schools is committed to creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment where every student thrives. We believe that family engagement is essential to student success and that parents, guardians, and family members are vital partners in the educational process. The Family Engagement Facilitator will play a crucial role in fostering strong partnerships between families and schools, ensuring that all students have the support and opportunities they need to succeed.

Responsibilities:

• Promote a Family-Friendly Environment: Work with school leadership to cultivate a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere that respects and honors the diversity of students and families within the school community.
• Facilitate Strong Partnerships: Foster effective two-way communication between teachers and families, ensuring that parents are actively involved in their child's education.
• Address Family Concerns: Regularly communicate family concerns or needs to the school principal and work collaboratively to address them.
• Support Family Engagement Activities: Assist in planning and promoting family events and activities that strengthen the school community and support student achievement.
• Develop Family Engagement Programs: Under the direction of the principal, create programs and activities designed to engage families in meaningful ways, with a focus on improving student outcomes.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Assist in collecting and analyzing data related to family engagement, using this information to inform and improve practices.
• Community Resource Identification: Identify and communicate resources available in the community that meet the needs of families, and develop relationships with community organizations that provide these services.
• Promote Diversity in Leadership: Encourage and support diverse parent participation in school councils, parent-teacher organizations, and other leadership roles.
• Facilitate Translation and Interpretation: Coordinate with the Multilingual Learner Department to ensure that family translation needs are met, and provide interpretation and translation services as needed.
• Participate in Professional Development: Engage in district-wide professional development opportunities to enhance family engagement strategies and stay current on best practices.

Qualifications/Skills:

Required:

• Excellent organizational and communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to communicate effectively and respectfully with families from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Ability to assess family needs and identify appropriate resources.
• Proficiency in English and fluency in a second language relevant to the school community.
• Strong commitment to equity and inclusion in education.
• Experience in family outreach or relevant roles in educational settings.
• U.S. citizenship, residency, or valid work visa.

Preferred:

• Bachelor's degree in education, social work, or a related field.
• Certification in translation and/or interpretation.
• Training and experience in conflict resolution.

General Summary:

The Family Engagement Facilitator is a key player in building the capacity of Watertown Public Schools to engage families authentically. This position is responsible for developing and implementing family engagement systems and activities that support teaching, learning, student achievement, and school improvement. By serving as a bridge between school and home, the Family Engagement Facilitator fosters trustful relationships, promotes understanding, and ensures that all families are fully engaged in the educational journey of their children. This role is instrumental in advancing the district's commitment to equity, inclusivity, and excellence in education.