Job Goal

The SEL/McKinney-Vento Liaison supports students’ social and emotional well-being and ensures compliance with the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. This role focuses on identifying and supporting students experiencing homelessness or housing instability, while also implementing social-emotional learning strategies to foster resilience, belonging, and academic success. The Liaison will collaborate with families, school staff, and community partners—including Jicarilla Apache Nation programs—to ensure students have equitable access to education and wraparound services.

McKinney-Vento Responsibilities

Identify students experiencing homelessness or housing instability in compliance with federal and state guidelines.
Ensure immediate enrollment and full participation in school activities, regardless of documentation or residency barriers.
Coordinate transportation, school supplies, clothing, meals, and other supports as needed.
Maintain accurate records and submit required reports to the New Mexico Public Education Department (PED).
Advocate for students’ educational rights and serve as the primary contact for families, school staff, and outside agencies.

SEL Responsibilities

Promote trauma-informed practices and SEL integration across classrooms and programs.
Provide individual and group support to students to build self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
Partner with teachers, counselors, and cultural leaders to embed SEL into the curriculum in ways that honor Jicarilla Apache culture and values.
Support professional development for staff on SEL and culturally responsive practices.

Collaboration and Community Engagement

Build strong partnerships with Jicarilla Apache Nation services, tribal education programs, and local social service agencies.
Provide outreach and resources to families experiencing housing instability.

Facilitate communication between home, school, and community to ensure coordinated support.

Qualifications:

· High School Diploma or equivalent certification.

· Bachelor’s degree in education, social work, counseling, or related field (Preferred).

· Experience in social-emotional learning, counseling, or student support services.

· Culturally responsive practice and commitment to serving Native American communities.

· Strong communication, advocacy, and organizational skills.

· Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with FERPA.

· Minimum of Three years’ experience demonstrating program management working with Youth Development and Education.

· Demonstrates initiative.

· Experience working with Native American students and families.

· Training in trauma-informed practices, restorative practices, or SEL frameworks.

· Familiarity with New Mexico Public Education Department reporting systems.

· Valid Driver’s license.

· Must successfully pass a criminal background check and any other required state and federal screening