SSAS Cultural Liaison (Dari or Pashto) (ACHS-IA)

Job Description

The SSAS Cultural Liaison will focus on helping Afghan families and students adjust to the cultural norms of the American high school experience and bridging the connection between school and home. This position is funded through the School Support for Afghan Students (SSAS) Grant Program through September 30, 2025, with the possibility of one additional year from October 1, 2025 through September 30, 2026. This position requires in-person attendance at Alexandria City High School and reports to the Academic Principal for the International Academy.

There are Two (2) openings for this position.

Responsibilities will include:

• Creating welcoming school environments for all families, with a focus on Afghan families who speak Dari or Pashto.
• Directly communicating and interacting with Afghan students for the purpose of supporting academic success, attendance, acculturation into the American school system, addressing socioemotional needs, and collaborating with the International Academy Student Support Team.
• Conducting outreach through a variety of communications to empower all families to be actively engaged in their child's education.
• Responding to Afghan families' concerns via Parent Square, email, and telephone.
• Connecting Afghan families and students to information, resources and services available to their student/family across the school division (i.e. ParentSquare, Student Services, Special Education, Advanced Academic Services, etc.
• Working with administrators to address issues and concerns presented by Afghan families.
• Reviewing and translating printed materials as needed.
• Supporting family engagement in schools and the community.
• Connecting with resettlement agencies or other stakeholders working with Afghan families in the International Academy.
• Serving as a cultural broker and facilitator in schools and community as needed.
• Assisting with home visits as needed to improve communication, support attendance goals, and increase access to resources.

Qualifications

• Education: High School diploma or equivalent.

Experience

• Professional experience working with families, community-based outreach programs, schools, and/or non-profits with increasing levels of responsibility is required.
• Experience working with culturally diverse communities.

Key Competencies

• Highly proficient in Dari or Pashto required (reading, writing, and speaking).
• Must have reliable transportation to travel to schools and community sites.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with other team members.
• Understanding of, and sensitivity for, diverse cultural, ethnic, and socio-economic backgrounds of students and their families.
• Ability to determine and assess confidential material, and maintain confidentiality.
• Excellent time management, customer service skills, and people skills.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including some evenings or weekends when necessary
• Ability to work in a high-paced work environment and use good judgment.

Clearances

• Criminal Justice Fingerprint/Background Clearance.
• Tuberculosis Skin Test.

Public Health Compliance

• Must follow safety and health protocols.

WP