Transition Coordinator, John Paul II Center for Special Learning

DIOCESE OF ALLENTOWN

John Paul II Center for Special Learning Shillington

Position Description

Position Title: Transition Coordinator

Location: John Paul II Center for Special Learning Shillington PA

Reports To: Transition Program Director

Employment Status: Full-Time; 12-month

Position Summary: The Transition Coordinator at John Paul II Center for Special Learning is responsible for guiding students aged 14 and older along with their families through the transition planning process for post-graduation life. This role involves collaborating with local agencies about post-secondary employment and living options teaching transition and job skill lessons for secondary programs overseeing the student-led lunch program and attending monthly meetings with Berks County Transition Coordinating Council. This position will move between two locations the Special Blends Café by JPII at Alvernia University American House 345 Penn St Reading PA. and JPII Center for Special Learning 1092 Welsh Rd. Shillington PA.

Key Responsibilities:

• Student and Family Support:
• Work with students and their families to develop individualized transition plans that provide progress reports/IEPs outline goals and steps for post-graduation success.
• Provide information and resources about post-secondary education employment and independent living options.
• Facilitate meetings with students families and other stakeholders to review and update transition plans annually.

• Agency Collaboration:
• Establish and maintain relationships with local agencies employers and community organizations to support student transition.
• Coordinate with external partners to secure worksite placements and other transition services for students.
• Serve as the primary contact for agencies involved in student transition planning.

• Job Skills Development:
• Develop and teach transition and job skill lessons tailored to the needs of secondary program students.
• Monitor student progress in worksite placements and provide feedback and support as needed.

• Student-Led Lunch Program:
• Oversee the planning coordination and execution of the student-led lunch program.
• Ensure that students are developing essential skills such as teamwork food preparation budgeting and customer service.
• Supervise and mentor students involved in the lunch program ensuring a positive and educational experience.

• Team Participation:
• Collaborate with other staff and teacher team members to support the overall mission and goals of John Paul II Center.
• Assist in the development and implementation of policies and programs that enhance student transition outcomes.
• Support the Transition Program Director to guide and implement the operational and strategic goals of the program.

Additional Conditions of Employment

Due to the nature and mission of the Catholic Church all employees are bound to exhibit respect for the teachings and discipline of the Church in regard to matters of faith and morals including maintaining a lifestyle that is in conformity with the teachings of the Catholic Church.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Special Education Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling or a related field. Masters degree preferred.

• Experience teaching students with IDD and Autism transition planning vocational training hospitality retail management or related areas.

• Strong organizational communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively with students families staff and community partners.

• Knowledge of food safety and café operations.

• Background clearances required per the Diocesan protocol.

• Commitment to the mission and values of John Paul II Center for Special Learning.

Working Conditions

• Full-time 12-month position with flexible hours including some evenings and weekends.

• Active hands-on role requiring time on the café floor.

• Collaborative environment with staff volunteers and community partners.

• Working location could move between JPII school campus 1092 Welsh Rd Shillington PA. and/or Alvernia University American House Special Blends Café by JPII at 345 Penn St Reading PA.

• May need to safely move materials or equipment weighing up to 50 lbs. with assistance.

• Handle opening and closing procedures for the operation.

• Reports to the Transition Program Director.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit a cover letter resume and three professional references to by January 31 2026.

John Paul II Center for Special Learning is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all employees and students.

EOE M/F/D/V

Required Experience:

IC