Job title: Education Navigator (PI)
Salary: $21/hour
Hours: 18-20 hours/week - regular business hours and weekends/nights as needed
Work Location: Hybrid
Position Overview:
The VOYAGERS program at UTOPIA PDX is designed to uplift Pacific Islander and LGBTQ2SIA+ students through
culturally relevant educational support, mentorship, and community connection. As the Education Navigator (PI), you
will work directly with Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (NHPI) elementary students, providing academic guidance,
fostering cultural pride, and collaborating with families and school staff. This role focuses on ensuring NHPI students
feel academically supported, culturally affirmed, and connected to their heritage.
Key Responsibilities:
● Student Support and Mentorship: Develop personalized academic support strategies, assisting NHPI
students with challenges in reading, math, and other subjects. Provide mentorship that emphasizes
self-identity, confidence, and resilience, ensuring students feel seen and supported in their educational journey.
● Family Engagement and Communication: Regularly communicate with students’ families, sharing updates
on academic progress and challenges. Organize family meetings and cultural events to engage families,
helping them feel informed and involved in their children's education.
● Resource Identification and Connection: Identify and connect students and families with relevant resources,
such as tutoring, cultural workshops, and community services. Facilitate referrals to school and community
resources to address each student's unique needs.
● Cultural Advocacy and Program Development: Advocate for the inclusion of NHPI cultural practices within
the school environment. Collaborate with school staff to create spaces where students can celebrate their
cultural heritage and feel pride in their identities.
● Progress Monitoring and Reporting: Track and evaluate each student’s progress, adjusting support plans as
necessary. Maintain detailed records to report on program impact, meeting NHPI Student Success grant
requirements.
● School Collaboration and Relationship Building: Build strong relationships with teachers, administrators,
and support staff, ensuring NHPI students receive consistent, culturally affirming support.
Qualifications:
● Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Work, Counseling, or related field (or equivalent experience).
● 2+ years of experience working with NHPI communities, particularly in an elementary school setting.
● Strong understanding of NHPI cultural values, educational challenges, and family dynamics.
● Ability to build trusting relationships with students, families, and school staff.
● Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.