Summary

Franklin Road Academy is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Thrive Coordinator to lead the THRIVE program.  THRIVE is aimed at supporting adults transitioning from their 4-year high school alternative degree in developing essential job skills, vocational proficiency, functional literacy and numeracy, community engagement, and skills that are required for university transition programs and entering the workforce. 

THRIVE is an extension of the Heart to Heart Program which provides a challenging educational experience for students with Down syndrome in an inclusive, integrated Christian community, with an unwavering commitment to developing the full academic and social potential of each student and instilling in our typically developing students understanding, acceptance, and love for those with developmental and learning differences.

Essential Functions

The tasks, duties, and responsibilities of this job include, but are not limited to:

• Develop and implement the THRIVE program curriculum, ensuring alignment with individualized participant goals, job market demands, and community integration objectives.
• Provide one-on-one coaching and support to program participants in areas such as job readiness, vocational skills development, functional reading and math, communication, and social interactions.
• Conduct regular assessments to identify participant strengths, areas of growth, and vocational interests, and adapt program activities accordingly.
• Collaborate with the Friends Life program for elective-based courses and community engagement.
• Facilitate workshops, training sessions, and group activities to enhance participants’ employability skills, interpersonal skills, and independence in daily living tasks.
• Establish and maintain relationships with local business partners, vocational training centers, and community organizations to create job placement opportunities and internships for program participants.
• Provide ongoing guidance and support to participants in navigating the job and college application process, interviewing techniques, resume building, and workplace etiquette.
• Monitor participants' progress, document outcomes, and maintain accurate records of program activities, attendance, and achievements.
• Foster a supportive and inclusive environment that encourages personal growth, self-advocacy, and empowerment among program participants.
• Collaborate with the Department Chair of Heart to Heart to ensure program alignment with organizational goals, policies, and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development opportunities, and program evaluation activities to enhance program effectiveness and quality of service.
• Participate in H2H program activities as deemed appropriate for adult learners.
• Assist with any medical needs of participants in collaboration with FRA nurses and caregivers.
• Work collaboratively with all stakeholders in preparation for the participants' individualized goals for transitioning to a university-based program or to enter the job field.

Qualifications

Education/Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Special Education, Social Work, Rehabilitation Counseling, or a related field. Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy or Special Education preferred.
• Previous experience working with individuals with disabilities, preferably in a vocational rehabilitation, transition, or supported employment setting.
• Valid driver’s license.

 Skills, Abilities, and Attributes

• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to effectively interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and implement curriculum, training materials, and instructional strategies tailored to individual learning styles and abilities.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage multiple responsibilities while maintaining attention to detail and meeting deadlines.
• Commitment to promoting independence, self-determination, and social inclusion for individuals with disabilities.

Physical Requirements

In compliance with ADA requirements, we will make reasonable accommodations for the known disability of an otherwise qualified applicant.

Additional Responsibilities

The statements in this job description are intended to represent the key duties, essential nature and level of work being performed.  They are not intended to be all responsibilities or qualifications of the job.

All employees are expected to support the mission of Franklin Road Academy, and contribute to the overall life of the school.

About Franklin Road Academy

MISSION: Franklin Road Academy provides a challenging educational experience in an inclusive Christian Community with an unwavering commitment to develop leaders of integrity and purpose. We Inspire in our students a lifelong love of learning through a dynamic academic program which will prepare them for success in life. We encourage students to discover their passions through opportunities in academics, the arts, athletics, and servant leadership. We nurture leaders of integrity, guided by Christian principles, compelled to lead lives of compassionate global citizenship

Connections working at Franklin Road Academy