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Educational Advocate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Education Specialist provide educational advocacy, conducts academic performance monitoring, and makes referrals to quality tutoring and extracurricular activities. The Education Specialist also ...

This occurs through various educational activities that include, but are not limited to, homework help or targeted exercises. In addition, we hope that our Advocates live up to their name and embody ...

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Educational Advocate information

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How much do educational advocate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for educational advocate in the United States is $21.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be an educational advocate?

To thrive as an Educational Advocate, candidates need a solid background in education, social work, or a related field, along with knowledge of special education laws and advocacy procedures. Familiarity with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), student records management systems, and certifications such as the Special Education Advocate Certification are often beneficial. Outstanding communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills set top advocates apart, as does a patient, empathetic attitude. These skills ensure that advocates can effectively support students' educational needs, working collaboratively with families and school personnel for optimal student outcomes.

What does an educational advocate do?

An Educational Advocate helps students and families navigate the education system, ensuring students receive appropriate services and support. They assist with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), special education rights, and school accommodations. Advocates also work with schools, attend meetings, and provide guidance on policies and resources. Their goal is to ensure that students receive the best possible education tailored to their needs.

What are the typical challenges faced by educational advocates on the job?

Educational Advocates often navigate complex educational systems and must stay updated on evolving laws and regulations, which can present ongoing challenges. They may need to mediate between families and schools to ensure students receive proper services, requiring strong conflict resolution and negotiation skills. Balancing a diverse caseload and maintaining detailed records to support each student's case can also be demanding. Despite these challenges, the role is highly rewarding for those passionate about making a meaningful difference in students' academic journeys.

What degree do you need to be an educational advocate?

Educational advocates typically hold at least a bachelor's degree in education, social work, psychology, or a related field. Some positions may require a master's degree or specialized certification, and strong communication and advocacy skills are essential for the role.
More about Educational Advocate jobs
What cities are hiring for Educational Advocate jobs? Cities with the most Educational Advocate job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Educational Advocate jobs? The most popular types of Educational Advocate jobs are:
What states have the most Educational Advocate jobs? States with the most job openings for Educational Advocate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Educational Advocate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Educational Advocate jobs are:
Infographic showing various Educational Advocate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,058 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Educational Advocate (Surrogate Parent)

Rhode Island College

Providence, RI โ€ข On-site

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Posting Details
Position Information
Posting Number
NC00837
Position Title
Educational Advocate (Surrogate Parent)
Division
Academic Affairs Division
Department Name
Sherlock Center on Disabilities
Position Type
Staff - Non Classified
Position Overview
Are you passionate about equity, education, and ensuring every child has a voice? Join Rhode Island College's Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities as an Educational Advocate, where you'll play a critical role in championing the educational rights of children in DCYF care who have-or may have-disabilities.
In this dynamic, student-centered role, you will serve as a trusted advocate and collaborator, working directly with schools, families, DCYF, CASA, and legal partners to ensure students receive the educational supports and services they are entitled to. You'll be deeply involved in the special education process-from reviewing records and initiating evaluations to attending IEP and disciplinary meetings-while monitoring school compliance and helping shape meaningful educational plans.
This position is ideal for a proactive, detail-oriented professional who thrives in collaborative environments, understands education and child welfare systems, and is driven by the belief that every child deserves access to a high-quality, supportive education. Your work will have real, lasting impact-not only on individual students, but across school systems statewide.
If you're energized by advocacy, skilled in communication and collaboration, and committed to improving outcomes for children with disabilities, this role offers meaningful work with purpose and impact.
Primary Purpose
The individual will serve as an educational advocate for children who are in the care of DCYF and who have or are suspected of having a disability.
Essential Duties
  • Provide educational advocacy services to assigned students, including:
  • Collecting and reviewing school records, including evaluations, discipline report, attendance records and other relevant information.
  • Making referrals for special education evaluation when appropriate. -Visiting schools and observing classrooms for assigned students as appropriate.
  • Participating in eligibility team meetings, disciplinary meetings, IEP meetings and other school meetings for assigned students.
  • Maintaining familiarity with available resources for students with disabilities in the assigned districts.
  • Working cooperatively with various service providers, including CASA and DCYF, regarding educational planning for students.
  • Monitoring the performance of local school departments in complying with the IEPs of assigned students
  • Keep accurate and up-to-date records, file reports and assist in the preparation of cases with staff attorneys and supervisors. -Provide resources and information to Rhode Island College faculty and students. -Attend IEP meetings and other school meetings as necessary.
  • Attend staff meetings and training sessions as scheduled.

Occasional Duties
Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the Director, Paul V. Sherlock Center on Disabilities
Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of the General and Special Education systems.
  • Knowledge of pertinent laws and regulations.
  • Knowledge of the child welfare systems.
  • Ability to collaborate with professionals, families and students.
  • Effective communication skills (verbal, written and electronic).
  • Ability to travel and arrange transportation to various public and private school locations throughout Rhode Island.

Required Qualifications
Education: College degree in a discipline related to the education of children or child welfare.
Experience: Three years of experience with children with disabilities or children in child welfare.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience working in special education or child welfare systems in Rhode Island.
  • Bilingual.

Does this position have Direct Reports?
No
Environmental Conditions
The employee is not exposed to known adverse environmental conditions.
Off campus facilities may not be accessible to persons who are disabled.
Position Details
FLSA
Exempt
Salary Grade
9NC
Full Time / Part Time
Full-time
Proposed Starting Salary Range
51,401
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday
8:30- 4:30
Some evenings and weekends
Benefits
Full-time employees enjoy an array of benefits including:
  • Health and Wellness - Medical, Dental & Vision
  • Wellness Incentives and Rewards
  • Paid time Off - Vacation, Sick & Holiday
  • Retirement Benefits
  • Disability and Insurance Benefits
  • Education Benefits - Tuition waivers for RIC, CCRI & URI

For a complete listing, visit Employee Benefits.
Reports To (Title)
Coordinator, Educational Advocate
Academic or Calendar Year
Calendar
Position Status
Grant-funded
End of Temporary or Limited Position
06/19/2027
Collective Bargaining Unit
Non-union
Posting Information
Number of Positions Available
1
Application Open Date
03/31/2026
Application Close Date
Special Instructions
Please be advised that the college is unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position. Candidates must have authorization to work in the US without the need for employer sponsorship.
EEO Statement
Rhode Island College is an equal opportunity employer. The institution does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability religion, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law. Rhode Island College is committed to maintain a workplace and educational environment that supports equal opportunity, professionalism and respectful engagement for all community members.