Education Advocate

Position Summary:

Washtenaw Association for Community Advocacy’s education advocate works with families to get appropriate services for children/young adults with disabilities (birth-26) in school. Most of this work is with families whose children receive special education services or who may be eligible for them. 

Responsibilities:

• Provide effective, professional education advocacy to families and/or young adults with disabilities at Individualized Education Program (IEP) and other school meetings in Washtenaw and Lenawee counties
• Review school and medical records to help families understand and advocate for student needs, appropriate supports, and school-based services
• Communicate with families, schools, and other agencies through email, phone, in-person, and virtual meetings
• Familiarity with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Michigan Administrative Rules for Special Education (MARSE), Section 504, and related rules, regulations, and policy guidance
• Connect families and young adults with disabilities to local, statewide and national resources
• Attend professional development events (2-3x/year)
• Complete data entry and reporting as required
• Assist with agency events, outreach and learning opportunities as assigned

Required Skills/Experience:

• Excellent verbal, written, interpersonal communication and problem-solving skills 
• Reliability, dependability, flexibility, punctuality, professionalism, and teamwork 
• Strong attention to details and accuracy 
• Computer skills (i.e., Microsoft Word, Google, Excel), ability to attend Zoom meetings, and experience working with online documents, databases, and reporting 
• A clean driving record and reliable transportation
• Research and independent learning skills 
• Commitment to WACA’s mission of empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to participate fully in community life

Preferred Skills/Experience: 

• Experience working with individuals with disabilities and understanding of special education 

If you have experience in education, as a family member supporting someone with a disability, or are a student in social work, education or a related field, with a strong desire to learn and are looking for a part-time position in a supportive work environment, we want to hear from you! Please submit a cover letter and resume to Kristen Columbus at [email protected]. The deadline for applications is August 31, 2025.

Thank you for your interest in joining our team!