District-wide METCO Specialist bei Arlington Public Schools

The vision of the Arlington Public Schools is to be an equitable educational community where all learners feel a sense of belonging, experience growth and joy, and are empowered to shape their own futures and contribute to a better world.

ARLINGTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position: District-Wide METCO Specialist

Job Goal: The METCO Program Specialist plays a vital role in advancing the academic, social, and emotional success of students by delivering meaningful supports and fostering a strong sense of belonging. Through culturally responsive practices and intentional relationship-building, the Specialist cultivates collaborative partnerships with caregivers, educators, and students. The Specialist contributes to the holistic development of students by designing interventions, supporting school-based planning efforts, and advocating for equity and inclusion throughout the school community.  This is a grant-funded position. 

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in education, counseling, social work, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• 3 years experience in a school setting, working with various stakeholders in an educational environment.
• DESE License as a Teacher, Counselor, Social Worker or related field
• Proven track record of success in implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion practices and programs with diverse populations.
• Familiarity with the METCO program and a shared belief in the mission, vision, and values of the program and district 

Knowledge and Skills: 

Knowledge of social-emotional, academic, and behavioral development across developmental age groups from early childhood through adolescence.

Familiarity with tiered systems of support (MTSS/RTI), IEP processes, and strategies that promote student achievement.

Awareness of how to plan and implement culturally affirming programs and events that promote inclusion, belonging, and cross-racial peer relationships.

Understanding of student confidentiality laws and ethical responsibilities in education-related counseling or advocacy work.

Ability to build strong relationships with students, families, and staff; engage in thoughtful communication across diverse backgrounds; and foster trust and collaboration.

Skilled in working across school teams—administrators, counselors, social workers, and special educators—to support student needs.

Ability to organize, manage, and implement schoolwide events, family engagement initiatives, and student support activities.

Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret student and program data to monitor progress, assess effectiveness, and inform decision-making

Job Responsibilities: 

• Foster a sense of belonging and promote a culture of inclusion and respect within the Arlington Public Schools METCO program.
  
  
• Partner with teachers, counselors, and social workers to assess and support the academic, social, and emotional progress of METCO students.
  
  
• Serve as a consistent advisor and advocate for METCO students, addressing academic, personal, and social needs.
  
  
• Collaborate with the METCO Director to design and implement programs that expand services and opportunities for METCO students and their peers.
  
  
• Participate in IEP evaluation teams and attend caregiver/teacher conferences, consulting with educators and families as needed to ensure METCO student needs are represented.
  
  
• Lead and support school-based initiatives and culturally affirming activities that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion for all students and families.
  
  
• Plan and engage in student- and family-centered events that build community and encourage cross-cultural peer relationships.
  
  
• Act as a liaison among students, families, and school staff to support effective communication and collaborative problem-solving.
  
  
• Provide timely documentation and written reports on student progress, family engagement, and advocacy efforts.
  
  
• Maintain high academic and behavioral expectations for METCO students and support successful school transitions and enrollment processes.
  
  
• Meet regularly with the METCO Director to review student outcomes and program effectiveness.
  
  
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the METCO Director or designated supervisor.

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT: Arlington Education Association, Unit A (183 work days) 

REPORTS TO:  METCO Director and secondary principal 

SALARY RANGE:  According to the AEA Unit A Contract

Arlington has a well established new teacher induction program with mentoring throughout the school year.

Salary and Benefits are consistent with the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the Arlington School Committee and the Arlington Education Association.  

The Salary Schedule is on our website.  Salary placement is based on Education and Experience. 

The Arlington Public Schools are committed to creating an inclusive and safe learning and working environment that reflects a diversity of perspectives, values, and experiences. We welcome staff who are aware of the role that bias and prejudice play in society, are creative and willing to try new approaches, and are reflective about their daily practice. We are looking for candidates who welcome a challenge, are eager to collaborate and contribute to the success of students, are ready to engage in two-way partnership with families, and who will contribute their diverse talents to the organization as a whole.