Job Description

Educators for Quality Alternatives (EQA)

EQA is a New Orleans nonprofit with the mission of Providing struggling students with the skills, confidence and experiences to succeed in the education and career paths of their choice.

The organization currently runs three alternative high schools: The NET:Central City, The NET:Gentilly, and the NET:East for students who have dropped out of, been expelled from, or who have otherwise struggled in a traditional school setting. 

EQA programs are built on the belief that alternative schools should not punish or “fix” young people; they should be vibrant, flexible, and restorative environments that support students in being their best selves.

The Bridge Middle School Program launched in August 2019 to serve 7th and 8th grade students during their expulsion terms.  The program is rooted in restorative and therapeutic practices:  students participate in intensive behavioral, social, and academic support and work to build skills that will help them transition successfully back to their home school.

Position Summary

The Bridge’s innovative model pairs a teacher and a counselor in each classroom to insure that students’ behavioral and mental health needs are being met along with their academic needs. The Classroom Counselor uses best practices in restorative and trauma-informed approaches to support individual student growth and classroom community development. 

 The Bridge’s Classroom Counselors are responsible for:

• Providing in and out of class interventions
• Case managing individual students
• Managing crisis and de-escalating students
• Sharing in classroom planning and supporting students academically
• Facilitating transitions into and out of the program 
• Liaising with stakeholders to insure wrap around supports
• Constantly developing your craft

Position Requirements:

Education & Experience

• 3-5+ years experience with at risk middle/high school students
• Experience working with students and families with significant trauma with a demonstrated record of improving their academic and behavioral skills
• Valid MSW, PLC or LCSW preferred by not required

Skills & Approach

• Passion for improving educational opportunities for urban students and for being a part of a strong, mission-driven team
• Commitment to EQA’s mission, vision and values
• Excellent organization, communication, interpersonal and people management skills
• Skilled at program, monitoring and evaluation, workplanning, and execution
• Flexible and learning mindset dedicated to effectively & innovatively problem solving

Details:

• Start Date: ASAP
• Location: The Bridge: 12000 Hayne Blvd.
• Schedule: School is year-round with a generous leave schedule.
• Salary: $40,000-$48,000 depending upon experience. Initial salary is set based on years of experience, certification, and degrees. Future salary increases are based on performance and responsibilities.
• Benefits: Comprehensive benefits and 403b retirement plan