Education Staff Attorney

About Student Advocacy

Student Advocacy provides legal representation and counsel for students in grades Pre-K - 12 in Westchester and Putnam Counties, NY, who face barriers to learning due to disabilities and other challenges. Our organization is committed to making legal services on education related matters accessible to all families, and therefore represents those who are primarily low-income and from historically marginalized communities. Serving over 500 students annually, attorneys work with students, families, school district personnel, and community partners to ensure equity and access to education for all children in our community.

Position Summary

Student Advocacy has an immediate opening for an education staff attorney to join its dedicated team to provide representation at school meetings such as the Committee on Special Education (CSE), suspension hearings, and in limited circumstance appeals to the NYS Commissioner of Education. Our attorneys protect the educational rights of students and work to ensure that those with disabilities receive a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment.

Responsibilities

• Provide legal representation and advocacy on behalf of students experiencing school difficulties including special education, enrollment, suspension, residency, attendance, transportation and in limited circumstances write state complaints and appeals to the Commissioner of Education
• Assist clients in understanding their legal rights under education and special education law
• Conduct reviews of documents including school evaluations, outside assessments, and related records
• Represent students and families at Special Education, CSE and 504 meetings, Manifestation Determination Reviews, and suspension hearings
• Assist families in requesting appropriate services based on the student’s needs
• Remain current on state and federal laws on education, special education, and disabilities rights
• Maintain accurate records in LegalServer, our secure case management system
• Participate in community network meetings and other outreach activities
• Additional responsibilities commensurate with the role may be assigned.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school required
• Licensed to practice law in NYS, or passed the NYS Bar and awaiting admission
• Fluency in Spanish highly preferred
• Experience in education advocacy or issues related to public education, particularly school discipline or special education, strongly preferred
• Ability to research, identify, analyze, and resolve legal issues related to individual client’s needs
• Ability to engage across cultures, identities, and ethnicities, problem solve, negotiate, and form professional relationships
• Organized, detail oriented, and able to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent legal research and writing skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Programs, virtual platforms, and client management systems
• Commitment to the missions and values of Student Advocacy

How to Apply

Applications must include a cover letter and resume. Please include Education Staff Attorney in the subject line. The cover letter should describe the candidate’s interest in and connection to this work. To apply for this position, submit materials to: drosenthal@studentadvocacy.net. Only responses with cover letters will be reviewed. This position is available immediately, and completed applications will be considered on a rolling basis.                                                                               

Compensation and Benefits

This is a full-time exempt position with a hybrid option after the initial onboarding period. The current salary range is $68,000 - $75,000. Student Advocacy offers a comprehensive benefit package that includes health insurance, 401k, 20+ paid time off days in addition to paid sick days and holidays.

Student Advocacy values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer. We consider qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected factors. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply and especially those with lived experiences in the communities we serve.