Navigator - Correctional Education

About the role

The Navigator for Correctional Education at Hutchinson Community College (Hutchcc) plays a vital role in bridging the gap between education and rehabilitation for individuals in correctional facilities. This position focuses on providing educational resources and support to inmates, helping them gain valuable skills and knowledge that can aid in their reintegration into society. The Navigator will work closely with various stakeholders, including correctional staff, educational institutions, and community organizations, to ensure that inmates have access to quality educational programs.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Develop and implement educational programs tailored to the needs of incarcerated individuals, focusing on skill-building and personal development.
• Collaborate with correctional facility staff to identify educational needs and create a supportive learning environment for inmates.
• Provide one-on-one guidance and support to inmates, helping them navigate their educational options and set achievable goals.
• Coordinate with local educational institutions to facilitate access to courses and resources for inmates.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of educational programs, making adjustments as necessary to improve outcomes.
• Organize workshops and seminars that cover a range of topics, including life skills, vocational training, and personal finance.
• Serve as a liaison between inmates and community resources, assisting with post-release planning and support.
• Maintain accurate records of inmate participation and progress in educational programs, ensuring compliance with institutional policies.
• Advocate for the educational needs of inmates within the correctional system, promoting the importance of education in rehabilitation.
• Participate in professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in correctional education and rehabilitation.
• Foster a positive and respectful learning atmosphere that encourages inmate engagement and participation.
• Collaborate with other Navigators and educational staff to share resources and best practices, enhancing the overall educational experience for inmates.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Education, Social Work, Criminal Justice, or a related field.
• A minimum of two years of experience in educational program development or direct educational services, preferably in a correctional setting.
• Strong understanding of the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals and the importance of education in the rehabilitation process.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse populations.
• Proven organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with community resources and support services available to individuals transitioning from incarceration to society.

Nice to have

• Master's degree in a relevant field, such as Education or Social Work.
• Experience working in a correctional facility or with at-risk populations.
• Knowledge of adult learning principles and instructional design.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish or another language is a plus.
• Certification in counseling or educational facilitation is advantageous.

Skills & tools

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and educational software.
• Strong analytical skills for evaluating program effectiveness and making data-driven decisions.
• Ability to utilize various teaching methods and technologies to engage learners effectively.
• Familiarity with online learning platforms and resources for remote education delivery.

Practical notes

• This position is based in Hutchinson, Kansas, and may require travel to various correctional facilities within the region.
• The salary for this role is competitive and commensurate with experience.
• Hutchcc is committed to diversity and inclusion, and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
• Applicants must be able to pass a background check as part of the hiring process.
• For more information and to apply, please visit the Hutchcc career page at [Hutchcc Careers](https://hutchcc.bamboohr.com/careers/870).

In summary, the Navigator for Correctional Education at Hutchinson Community College is a crucial position aimed at empowering individuals within the correctional system through education. By providing tailored support and resources, the Navigator will help inmates develop the skills necessary for successful reintegration into society, ultimately contributing to lower recidivism rates and fostering a more educated community.