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Student Advocate Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

Communications Manager

Madison, WI · On-site

$72K - $84K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... student advocacy. We are dedicated to ensuring every student thrives in a complex world and seek candidates who are student-centered, practice inclusivity and collaboration, strive for excellence ...

Program Coordinator for Belonging Programs

Madison, WI · On-site

$50K - $55K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Student Success and Belonging creates programming and operates spaces that provide support, advocacy, and co-curricular experiences that center, affirm, and celebrate UW students. We cultivate a ...

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Student Advocate information

See Madison, WI salary details

$11

$21

$32

How much do student advocate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for student advocate in Madison, WI is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.21 and $25.91 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a student advocate?

A Student Advocate is a professional who supports and represents students’ interests within educational institutions. Their role often involves helping students navigate academic processes, resolving conflicts, and ensuring fair treatment. Student Advocates provide guidance on issues such as academic appeals, disciplinary actions, and access to resources. They work to create a supportive environment where students can voice concerns and receive assistance in overcoming challenges. The ultimate goal of a Student Advocate is to empower students and promote their well-being and academic success.

What is the difference between Student Advocate vs School Counselor?

AspectStudent AdvocateSchool Counselor
Required CredentialsTypically a bachelor's degree in education, social work, or related field; some roles may require certificationMaster's degree in school counseling or related field; state certification/license often required
Work EnvironmentAssist students with academic, social, and emotional issues; often work in schools, community organizations, or advocacy groupsProvide academic guidance, mental health support, and career counseling within schools
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, non-profits, advocacy organizationsPublic and private schools, educational institutions

While both roles support students' well-being, Student Advocates focus on advocacy and navigating resources, whereas School Counselors provide direct counseling and academic guidance within educational settings.

What is a student advocate?

A student advocate is a member of a school faculty who works with troubled students or those who have problems in their education. As an advocate, you ensure these students get the help and resources they need to engage in a positive learning experience. You collaborate with teachers and guidance counselors on behalf of students and answer to the school’s principal. In this position, your job duties are helping the student through any personal or academic issues, paying attention to problems they have, and addressing them as deemed appropriate in your system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a student advocate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Student Advocate, you need a solid understanding of educational policies, counseling techniques, and advocacy, often supported by a degree in education, social work, or counseling. Familiarity with student information systems, case management software, and relevant regulations is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, cultural competence, and effective communication help build trust and support among students and stakeholders. These skills and qualities are crucial for addressing student needs, removing barriers, and promoting academic and personal success.

How does a student advocate typically collaborate with faculty and support services to address student concerns?

Student Advocates work closely with faculty, academic advisors, and campus support services to ensure that student concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. They often act as liaisons, facilitating communication between students and staff, and coordinating meetings or interventions when necessary. By building strong relationships across departments, Student Advocates can help create tailored support plans, advocate for policy changes, and ensure that students have access to the resources they need to succeed. This collaborative approach is essential for identifying systemic issues and promoting a positive, inclusive campus environment.

What degree do you need to be a student advocate?

A student advocate typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in education, social work, psychology, or a related field. Relevant experience, strong communication skills, and knowledge of educational policies are also important for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Student Advocate jobs in Madison, WI?

For Student Advocate jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Student Advocate jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Student Advocate jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Student Advocate jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Student Advocate job openings:

Infographic showing various Student Advocate job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 58% Full Time, 38% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,402 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

$25.51/hr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 15 days ago


Sun Prairie Area School District rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

258th of 631 rated elementary and secondary schools


Job description

Position Type:
Support Staff - Instructional Support/Youth Advocate
Date Posted:
7/1/2026
Location:
Sun Prairie West High School
Date Available:
08/24/2026
Starting Wage: $25.51 per hour
This position is full time, 7.5 hours per day, Monday through Friday, during the school year. This position is benefit eligible and comes with paid time off and paid holidays.
Summary
The purpose of this position is to create positive relationships with students in order to connect them to their educational program, and to provide supervision in all school areas. The Youth Advocate will use conflict resolution, non-violent crisis intervention, and partnerships with administration, deans, teachers, student services, and restorative practices coach to bridge students to appropriate resources and/or the classroom environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.
  • The Youth Advocate's primary responsibility is to ensure that students are in class for the entirety of the instructional period.
  • Maintains a safe environment by monitoring hallways, bathrooms, building doors, school grounds, and re-directing students to class if they are not in class from bell-to-bell.
  • Provides supervision and acts as a role model and presence in hallways, lunchroom, and outside the school building creating a safe and welcoming environment including before and after school .
  • Maintains an awareness of student culture and climate inside school and in the community and keeps school administration and student services informed.
  • Collaborates with the administrative team to implement the crisis management plan, medical response team, and school safety requirements to maintain a safe environment as directed by principal / associate principal.
  • Refers students to student services, deans or restorative practices coach as needed.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Minimum Training and Experience Required To Perform Essential Job Functions
  • High School Degree or equivalent
  • Experience working with a diverse student population preferred (racially, culturally, linguistically, identity, socioeconomically varied).
  • Must have experience in or full understanding of diverse cultures, preferably in a school setting.
  • Must have knowledge and appreciation for adolescent development and a desire to serve young people.
  • Must have completed or willing to be trained in de-escalation and physical restraint strategies

Dispositional Characteristics
  • Stays calm in stressful situations
  • Communicates with students, staff and parents/caregivers in a professional manner
  • Demonstrates adaptability and flexibility
  • Maintains a long term view of student success and growth
  • Approaches stressful situations with empathy
  • Demonstrates cultural competence interacting with students, staff and parents/caregivers
  • Maintains a positive, friendly, and welcoming attitude
  • Approaches the work and students with high expectations and high support

Minimum Physical and Mental Abilities Required To Perform Essential Job Functions
Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to walk, run, lift, climb, bend, reach, and kneel.
  • Must have physical stamina to stand or walk on feet up to 7.5 hours per day.
  • Must have current physical on file with the District Office certifying the applicant is able to meet all job qualifications.

Language Ability and Interpersonal Communication
  • Must possess strong communication and listening skills that are culturally appropriate, a high degree of patience, and an open friendly demeanor
  • Ability to work with students, staff, and community in a positive and supportive manner.
  • Ability to work effectively in a diverse work environment
  • Ability to work as part of a team to ensure belonging and connectedness
  • Ability to effectively resolve physical and verbal altercations through restorative practices between staff and students and/or between/among students
  • Ability to record and deliver information, explain procedures and follow instructions
  • Must be able to work well under stress and to react appropriately in emergency situations

Environmental Adaptability
  • Ability to work effectively outdoors and in a school environment.

The Sun Prairie Area School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the School District will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Attachment(s):
  • 2026-27 192 DAY SUPPORT STAFF CALENDAR.pdf

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