Job Title: LIEP Ombudsman - Bilingual 

Grade Level/Terms of Employment: Grade 130/260 Days 

FLSA Status: Exempt

Work Location: LIEP Department 

Immediate Supervisor: Director, LIEP Department

 

General Description:

The Ombudsman will serve as a critical link between our school district, students, and families that speak languages other than English, ensuring their equitable access to education and support. This role requires fluency in English and another language, as well as a deep understanding of cultural nuances to effectively navigate and address the unique needs of our diverse community. The Ombudsman will mediate conflicts, provide advocacy, offer guidance, and promote a collaborative environment that fosters positive relationships among students, families, staff, and the school district.

 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Act as a trusted advocate for English Learner students and families, providing information, resources, and support to address their concerns, needs, and challenges within the education system.
• Mediate and resolve conflicts that arise between students, families, and the school district. Facilitate open communication and work towards amicable solutions.
• Provide language interpretation and translation services as needed, ensuring effective communication between the district and English Learner families. Bridge cultural gaps to enhance understanding and collaboration.
• Assist families in navigating the education system, including enrollment processes, program options, and available support services. Offer guidance on curriculum, graduation requirements, and college readiness.
• Help families understand the special education process, evaluations, and Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), ensuring that the educational needs of students with disabilities are met.
• Organize and participate in community events, workshops, and meetings that promote collaboration, understanding, and involvement among multilingual families, district staff, and other stakeholders.
• Identify patterns and issues affecting English Learner students and families, and provide valuable feedback to district leadership for policy improvements that enhance inclusivity and equity.
• Identify patterns and issues affecting multilingual students and families, and provide valuable feedback to district leadership for policy improvements that enhance inclusivity and equity.
• Assess current processes, by using data; develop and implement new strategies and procedures as needed.
• Performs other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

• Postgraduate Professional License with endorsements in English as a Second Language required 
• Administration and Supervision preferred
• Minimum of five (5) combined years of experience teaching and/ or leading academic programs to support English Learners at the school and division level 
• Fluent in more than one language, with exceptional oral and written communication skills in additional languages (preferably Spanish).
• Deep understanding of the cultural and linguistic needs of English Learners and their families, along with the ability to navigate diverse cultural contexts.
• Previous experience in mediation, conflict resolution, or advocacy roles is desirable.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build positive relationships with students, families, staff, and community members.
• Knowledge of educational policies, programs, and services, particularly those related to English Learners and special education.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail in maintaining accurate records and documentation.
• Commitment to equity, inclusivity, and social justice in education.
• Ability to work independently, handle sensitive situations with empathy, and maintain a professional demeanor.
• Effective organizational skills 
• Availability to participate in evening and weekend events

 

HOW TO APPLY: 

All applicants (including RPS employees) must submit an online application. Please access the website at: www.rvaschools.net

 

Please upload the following information with your application: a current resume' and license.  Three reference names and contact information will be required if you progress to the interview step of the selection process.

Richmond Public Schools will conduct a background investigation, fingerprinting, and tuberculosis screening as a condition of employment. EOE.