Lauren Dickson
EPSEA High School Lead Educational Liaison
Canal Winchester,Ohio
Summary
Dedicated MSW student with a robust background in supporting the foster youth population in Columbus. Proven ability to implement effective intervention strategies and foster meaningful connections with students. Recognized for strong teamwork, adaptability to evolving needs, and a consistent track record of achieving positive outcomes. Exceptional empathy, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities contribute to a commitment to advocacy for youth and families in various settings. Eager to further develop advocacy skills and make a lasting impact on the lives of those served.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications
Work History
EPSEA High School Lead Educational Liaison
ESC of Central Ohio
08.2021 - Current
- Conducts regular progress monitoring meetings with students, ensuring ongoing communication about goals and achievements.
- Implements data-driven interventions targeting specific areas of need, leading to improved student outcomes across the board.
- Serves as a point of contact between schools and external agencies, facilitating efficient coordination of services for eligible students.
- Participated in professional development opportunities to stay abreast of current trends and best practices.
- Trains and mentors new Educational Liaisons, sharing expertise and insights to promote a successful team dynamic.
- Manages caseloads effectively, ensuring timely follow-up and documentation of student progress.
- Builds trusting relationships with students, families, and school staff, serving as a reliable source of support and guidance throughout the educational process.
- Identifies potential barriers within student academic process to initiate steps for resolution.
- Preserves student academic files and monitored student progress and achievements using Microsoft 365 (Sharepoint and Excel).
- Provides resources to support students in achieving career goals.
- Helps students develop organizational, time management and study skills.
- Monitors student progress to drive successful academic outcomes.
- Collaborates with stakeholders to provide student access to available resources.
- Assists students in exploring and selecting career paths.
- Participates in career and job fairs to connect students with area schools and employers.
Educational Liaison for the EPSEA Program
ESC of Central Ohio
08.2018 - 07.2021
- Worked with foster youth, grades 2-12, in the school setting. Developing academic, behavior and attendance goals. One-on-one meetings were held weekly with each student.
- Implemented goal setting consisting of Social Emotional Learning competencies to build student skills and improve outcomes.
- Participated in a monthly convening with community partner programs under Partnership4Success.
- Attended Semi-Annual Review Meetings at Franklin County Children Services (FCCS) to provide youth's educational information to agency service teams.
- Participated in ETRs, IEPs, Manifestation meetings, and Expulsion hearings on behalf of students.
- Connected students to appropriate community resources, improving their overall well-being and academic success.
- Worked to build trusting relationships with students, families, and school staff, serving as a reliable source of support and guidance throughout the educational process.
Education Specialist for the ED PASS Program
ESC of Central Ohio
12.2010 - 07.2018
- Held weekly meetings with foster youth (grades 6-12), in the school setting, to help improve academic, attendance and behavior outcomes.
- Collaborated with school personnel, Franklin County Children Services, caregivers and community partners to provide educational information and resources to promote student success.
- Implemented student assessment and evaluation processes, aiding student success.
- Liaised between faculty, staff and administrators to coordinate educational program delivery.
- Built relationships with external stakeholders, community organizations and donors to increase program scope.
Education
Master of Social Work - Social Work
Capella University
Online01-2027
B. A. - International Affairs
University of Cincinnati
12.2009
Skills
- Excellent writing skills
- Excellent communication skills
- Provides thorough and detailed reporting
- Knowledge and implementation of SEL activities and DESSA questionnaires
- Organization and completion of tasks on time
- Works well in a team setting
- Experience with foster care youth
- Currently completing “Cognitive Coaching” sessions
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Multitasking
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Student advocacy
Accomplishments
- Completed Partnership4Success' Facilitator Project (2024)
- Presented at the Ohio School Boards Association (OBSA) Conference (2023)
- Completed Adapted Schools Seminar (2023)
- Completed Cognitive Coaching Foundation Seminar (2022)
- Current member of the following workgroups for Partnership4Success: Data & Continuous Improvement, Youth & Young Adult Career Readiness CoP, SEL Into Careers, Workforce Readiness Leadership Roundtable
Certification
Cognitive Coaching
Timeline
EPSEA High School Lead Educational Liaison
ESC of Central Ohio
08.2021 - Current
Educational Liaison for the EPSEA Program
ESC of Central Ohio
08.2018 - 07.2021
Education Specialist for the ED PASS Program
ESC of Central Ohio
12.2010 - 07.2018
Master of Social Work - Social Work
Capella University
B. A. - International Affairs
University of Cincinnati