Job title: Journey Navigator (PI)

Salary: $21/hour

Hours: 18-20 hours/week - regular business hours and weekends/nights as needed

Work Location: Hybrid

Part-Time Position Overview:

The Journey Transformation department 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:

● No Degree Required.

● 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.