Fall 2024 My New School Program Intern

BACKGROUND: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work in over 40 countries and 26 U.S. cities to restore safety, dignity and hope, the IRC leads the way from harm to home. The IRC in Atlanta office was established in 1979 and has resettled over 30,000 refugees from over 65 countries into the Greater Atlanta area. As the largest refugee resettlement agency in Georgia, the IRC in Atlanta resettles an average of 1000 refugees into Georgia annually and provides additional services and assistance to another 2,500 refugees and asylees. 

SCOPE OF MY NEW SCHOOL PROGRAM INTERN WORK: This internship is located within the Youth Services department. The My New School program provides a crucial bridge between newly arrived refugee families and local schools, ensuring that each child gains access to education and has a positive start to their academic journey in the U.S. Program activities include school enrollment support and orientation programming for new students and their caregivers. Please note that all internship positions are unpaid. Accepting Atlanta-based candidates only. 

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Communicating information to families on such topics as school attendance, behavior, hygiene, academics, and parent involvement
• Assistance with local schools’ online registration applications
• Coordinating transportation for children and families 
• Maintaining tracking systems and database entries for student information and school progress
• Providing classroom assistance for group orientation sessions
• Providing general support to the My New School Program Coordinator and Family Engagement Specialists
• Other duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

QUALIFICATIONS: 

• Strong computer skills, particularly MS Office suite and databases
• Flexibility and strong organizational skills with an ability to work independently
• Strong telephone etiquette and verbal communication skills
• Comfort with working in a cross-cultural environment
• Comfort working with school-aged children and their parents
• Must have a valid driver’s license, a reliable vehicle, and be able to transport clients 
• Submit intern hours on volunteer dashboard.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Must submit intern hours on volunteer portal. 
• Must pass a background check. 
• Commitment of 15 hours per week for a minimum of 3 consecutive months. 
• Must be at least 18 years old.

This is an in-person role. This position will report to the Education Specialist.