Social Worker (LMSW) - Abilities First Myers Corners Education Center in Wappingers Falls, New York at ABILITIES FIRST, INC

Who We Are

For over 60 years, Abilities First, Inc. has been empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to live their most vibrant, independent lives. From early education to adulthood, our wide range of services—including preschool and school programs, day programs and residential services, community connections, and employment services—are designed to uplift every individual’s unique strengths and dreams.

We believe in the power of people—of every background, identity, and ability—to create change and build a more inclusive world. Abilities First is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is welcoming and supportive of people of varying abilities, races, ethnicities, religions, socio-economic status, gender and gender identities. At Abilities First, you’ll join a mission-driven team that values collaboration, celebrates individuality, and is dedicated to meaningful work. If you're ready to turn your passion into purpose, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

Who We Need

We are seeking a patient, energetic, and compassionate Social Worker (LMSW) to join our team at Abilities First's Myers Corners and Hyde Park Education Centers, located in Wappingers Falls and Hyde Park, NY. This is an exciting opportunity to work collaboratively with an interdisciplinary team, students, families, and groups while utilizing a variety of treatment approaches to support student success. The Social Worker plays a key role in assisting students with disabilities achieve their Individual Education Program goals within the school setting.

Schedule: Monday - Friday - 8:00 am-3:00 pm, 32.5 hours per week, 48 weeks per year

Rate of Pay: $29.41 - $31.41 an hour

Responsibilities:

Under the supervision of the School Principal the Social Worker is responsible for:

• Individual and Group Counseling with students.
• Complete annuals, quarterly reports, follow IEP goals and create goals.
• Collaborate with teachers and interdisciplinary team embers to develop and implement Individualized
• Education Program (IEP) goals.
• Coordinates donations for families during the Holidays.
• Conduct psychosocial assessments and develop treatment plans.
• Provide counseling as listed in a child’s IEP, maintain documentation as required by NYSED.
• Assist families in understanding the developmental, and behavioral needs that are present in their children.
• Offer crisis intervention and support to students in need.
• Facilitate communication between school, families, and external agencies.
• Promote social-emotional learning and behavioral development.
• Maintain accurate and confidential student records.
• Support and advocate for families in enhancing their coping skills and understanding of the issues that arise from developmental disabilities.
• Linkage and referral to Community Services for students and families.
• Request services from outside agencies when needed (BOCES).
• Attend Classroom Team Meetings when requested.
• Evaluate students in crisis (suicide risk assessment threat assessments).
• Participates in building classes for the school year.
• Assist participant in appropriate service plan development to include educational, medical, vocational, residential and social needs that reflect person/family centered planning. Provide linkage and referral services as needs are identified and requested by participant.
• Function as a member of school team, act as a liaison, and ensure open communication between student service programs and other community agencies.
• Provide advocacy services by intervening on the behalf of the students to ensure or secure needed services, resources, entitlement and human rights.
• Maintain appropriate documentation required by oversight agency and/or service program.
• Meet regularly (as per oversight agencies, service program and participant require) for follow up on concerns to provide support, information and concrete problem-solving services.
• Provide individual, family and group counseling to enhance the coping skills and increase understanding of issues arising from developmental disabilities.
• Performs other appropriate job-related activities as required by immediate supervisor or as circumstances warrant.
• Follow all agency policy and procedures and demonstrate continuous regard to personal safety and safety of others.
• Adhere to agency Code of legal and Ethical Behavior, which require all employees, consultants, board members, volunteers and affiliates to perform their responsibilities according to ethical and legal standards with honesty, integrity, fairness, good faith and respect for others and the laws.

Perks & Benefits*:

• Time to Recharge – Personal and sick time with additional paid time off in accordance with school calendar
• Health & Wellness – Medical, dental, and vision plans to keep you covered, and free Employee Assistance Program available 24/7
• Plan for The Future – Retirement savings plan options, employer-paid life insurance, and access to Free Will
• Level Up Your Skills– Tuition reimbursement and career development training opportunities
• Get Paid When You Need It – On Demand Pay gives you access to earnings as early as the next day
• Make a Difference and Be Recognized! – We celebrate our team through staff appreciation events, employee awards, team celebrations, and ongoing recognition of exceptional performance and service.
• And More!

Physical Demands

• Have the ability to push and pull students in wheelchairs, lift, bend, squat, turn in the knees, pivot and grasp with both hands (in order to properly and safely perform the techniques taught in CPR/First Aid, behavior intervention techniques, and lifting and carrying techniques), with or without a reasonable accommodation.
• Possess verbal and written communication skills, in English, to ensure adequate regulatory documentation.

*Eligibility requirements may apply

LMSW or LCSW-R with five years’ experience working with children and adolescents with developmental disabilities. This position requires knowledge of community and state level organizations. Required Counseling experience with developmentally disabled adolescents and family training experience. School district systems experience is helpful.