1.2.5.2 Youth Education Navigators

All W-2 agencies should have a staff member who performs the role of a Youth Education Navigator.

The role of the Youth Education Navigator is to support the children of W-2 participants in their participation with educational programs and activities.

The Youth Education Navigator will perform these primary functions:

Provide support for educational progress and attainment by assisting youth overcome barriers to academic success.

Develop and maintain connections with schools and educational programs, while evaluating the growth and needs of the program.

Identify and perform services to address the specific needs of youth, which can include, but is not limited to: Assist with re-enrolling in a local school if they have dropped out or moved; Identify alternative educational options for students outside of the public school system; Assist with enrolling and completing GED or HSED, if appropriate; Find suitable childcare options for youth that are parents; and Enhance positive behavior by mediating disputes and encouraging healthy social skills.

Connect youth with resources to assist with vocational training, college, technical school, or employment opportunities.

Assist youth with referrals to additional services to enrich and improve life skills.

Help youth access Supportive Services, which can include, but is not limited to: Basic school supplies (e.g., notebooks, folders, pencils); Technology (e.g., laptop, tablet); Mobile internet or a hotspot; Transportation assistance; Clothing; Home school materials (e.g., desk, lamp, chair, headphones); Educational extra-curricular activities (e.g., forensics, financial literacy, field trips); Graduation expense (e.g., cap and gown); and Other educational expenses approved by the state.

Establish and maintain connection with youth to monitor progress, facilitate success, and maintain motivation.