
Advocacy That Transformed Access: Building Belonging Through a Bilingual Community Space
Advocacy for multilingual communities often begins with creating spaces where students and families can show up fully as themselves. At our school site in Northern California, one experience that reshaped our approach to accessibility and inclusion was the establishment of a bilingual lunch room- a dedicated space where students could eat, connect, and communicate freely in their home language with peers and staff.
The idea grew out of student voice. Many multilingual learners shared that they often avoided speaking their native language at school for fear of standing out or being misunderstood. In response, our English Language Development (ELD) team advocated for a designated space where linguistic diversity was not just accepted, but celebrated. We collaborated with administrators, bilingual staff, and family liaisons to create a welcoming environment stocked with culturally familiar snacks, multilingual books, and conversation prompts that encouraged connection across grade levels.
The results were immediate and profound. Students who had once been quiet or hesitant in mainstream settings began to engage more confidently in both English and their home language. Teachers noticed stronger classroom participation, and families expressed gratitude that their children finally had a space to feel seen and valued. The bilingual room also became an informal mentoring hub, where newcomers received peer support and where staff could authentically connect with students outside the academic setting.
This initiative revealed a powerful accessibility best practice: belonging is foundational to learning. By creating a physical and emotional space where students’ languages and cultures were affirmed, we strengthened not only language development but also confidence, community, and trust. Advocacy, in this case, looked like opening a door- and watching students walk through it as their unique selves.
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ABOUT THE ROLE The King County Department of Public Defense is recruiting for Public Defense Attorney - Supervisor(s) as a Special Duty Assignment (SDA) within The Defenders Association Division. This role involves supervising attorneys, carrying a partial caseload, and promoting fairness, equity, and anti-oppression frameworks while representing indigent adults and children facing a loss of liberty. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Supervise attorneys and support staff. - Develop, evaluate, train, mentor, and coach unit employees and interns. - Ensure work conforms with professional standards, statutes, rules, and policies. - Conduct disciplinary investigations and impose discipline when appropriate. - Implement and monitor corrective and career development action plans. - Conduct performance evaluations of unit employees. - Assign and balance workload among attorneys within the unit. - Ensure unit employees are up to date on DPD policies, legislative proposals, and case law changes. - Act as a catalyst for problem-solving and conflict resolution. - Carry a partial caseload requiring excellent legal representation, trial skills, and client rapport. - Maintain and update a computerized case-management system. - Identify cases presenting an ethical conflict of interest. - Serve on call at least twice a year and supervise on-call attorneys. - Actively support and promote DPD's mission and policies. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school OR completion of the WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program. - Member of the Washington State Bar Association in good standing, having been a lawyer for at least three years. - Murder/Sex/Felony High qualified (for Felony placements). - Washington State Driver's License or ability to travel to required destinations. - Knowledge of community resources, legal research computer applications, judicial/trial procedure, and case management. - Ability to manage a work unit, build strong attorney/client relationships, and collaborate with judicial and criminal justice systems. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - This Special Duty opportunity is ONLY open to current King County, TDA, career service employees who have completed their initial probation. - Assignment is anticipated to last up to six months, with the ability to be extended or end early based on business needs. - Must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to the King County worksite. - Must maintain a home workspace with reliable internet for hybrid work. - Hybrid model: minimum of four days per week onsite (especially during the probationary period). - May be required to travel to various locations throughout King County (courts, jails, hospitals, treatment centers). - Exempt from FLSA overtime provisions. - Subject to DPD Ethical Walls Policies and Outside Work Policy for Attorneys. SELECTION PROCESS - Evaluation of application materials and supplemental questions. - Interviewing and reference checks. - Personnel file review going back the last three years. - Background check, if applicable. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a completed King County application. - Attach a current and chronological resume. - Attach a cover letter detailing your background and what you can bring to the Department of Public Defense. - Applications submitted by 11:59 p.m. on September 4, 2026, will be given priority consideration. - Current supervising attorneys in TDAD wishing to transfer should email Managing Attorney Ben Goldsmith at benjamin.goldsmith@kingcounty.gov by the closing date. - For accommodations, contact dpd-hr@kingcounty.gov. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: King County - Location: Dexter Horton Building, 710 Second Avenue #200, Seattle, WA (with potential rotations to other Seattle, Kent, or Redmond locations) - Job Type: Term-Limited, Full Time - Bargaining Unit: AD2 : L117-DPD-Sups&Mgrs-Atty - Opening Date: 08/27/2026 - Closing Date: Continuous (Priority consideration by 09/04/2026) - FLSA Status: Exempt
ABOUT THE ROLE The Department of Public Defense (DPD) is recruiting for Public Defense Attorney Supervisor positions within The Defenders Association Division. The role involves supervising attorneys, ensuring high-quality legal representation, mentoring staff, and fostering an inclusive environment committed to equity and social justice. Supervisors may carry a partial caseload and must demonstrate a passion for public defense and client representation. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Supervise, develop, evaluate, train, mentor, and coach unit employees and interns - Ensure work conforms to professional standards, statutes, rules, and policies - Conduct disciplinary investigations, impose discipline, and implement corrective action plans - Conduct annual performance evaluations and assign or balance attorney workloads - Carry a partial caseload requiring excellent legal representation, trial, research, and negotiation skills - Maintain and update computerized case-management systems to track caseloads - Identify ethical conflicts of interest - Serve on-call at least twice a year and supervise on-call attorneys - Participate in the Division Management Team and assist with office-wide initiatives MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school or completed the WSBA's Rule 6 Law Clerk Program - Member of the Washington State Bar Association in good standing with at least three years of experience as a lawyer - Murder/Sex/Felony High qualified to be considered for Felony placements - Washington State Driver's License or ability to travel to required destinations SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must reside in Washington state and within a reasonable distance to the King County worksite - Subject to DPD Ethical Walls Policies and Outside Work Policy for Attorneys - Represented by Teamsters 117 bargaining unit - Must maintain a home workspace with a reliable internet connection SELECTION PROCESS - Evaluation of application materials and supplemental questions - Interviewing - References - Personnel file review going back three years - Background check if applicable HOW TO APPLY - Submit a completed King County application - Attach a current or chronological resume - Attach a cover letter detailing your background and what you bring to the DPD - Current TDAD supervising attorneys wishing to transfer should email Managing Attorney Ben Goldsmith at benjamin.goldsmith@kingcounty.gov by the closing date - Applications submitted by 11:59 p.m. on August 10, 2026, receive priority consideration EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Career Service Executive, Full Time, Exempt from FLSA overtime provisions - Location: Hybrid model with an onsite minimum of four days per week and five days during the probationary period - Work Locations: Various locations including Seattle, Kent, and Redmond District Court - Travel: Required to various locations throughout King County, including courts, jails, hospitals, and treatment centers - Benefits: Pension plan, holidays, transit pass, training, and education opportunities
ABOUT THE ROLE Full-time, hybrid position with the Office of the Legal Defender in Maricopa County, Phoenix, AZ. The role involves advocating professionally, aggressively, and ethically on behalf of indigent clients appointed by the court. The attorney will prepare cases and represent clients through all phases of court proceedings, specifically filling a current vacancy in the appellate unit. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Appear in court representing clients at scheduled hearings and trials - Present oral arguments in support of clients' legal interests - Research facts and analyze legal issues using computerized and printed legal research tools - Compose motions, briefs, correspondence, and other legal documents - Review evidence on- and off-site - Discuss and present analyses of legal issues to clients, court personnel, and related individuals - Communicate in person and by phone with clients, opposing counsel, co-workers, and supervisors - Travel to courts, mental health institutions, jails, detention centers, and correctional facilities - Provide leadership for professionals, including other attorneys, mitigation specialists, investigators, and paralegals - Attend Continuing Legal Education seminars MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Three years of appellate experience - Juris Doctor (JD) or Doctor of Jurisprudence from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved law school - Currently admitted to practice law and a member in good standing with the State Bar of Arizona at the time of application SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Valid Arizona driver's license required upon hire - Travel to and from job-related locations during a scheduled workday using a County or private vehicle - May require national and international travel outside of a scheduled workday for case-related investigation - Physical demands: lift 15-25 pounds from floor to waist; 15 pounds waist to shoulder or shoulder to overhead; carry 15-25 pounds for 100 feet; push/pull 100 pounds for 100 feet - Work environment includes exposure to traumatic subject matter, interruptions, time pressures, high volumes of work, and handling multiple complicated tasks - Preferred qualifications: experience with adult criminal appeals and post-conviction relief, and work in state criminal litigation within the last three years SELECTION PROCESS 1. Consideration is only given to candidates who submit online applications 2. Candidates will be contacted primarily through email and their Workday online application profile 3. Must pass a pre-employment background and/or fingerprint investigation as required by statute or policy, including drug and alcohol testing for safety-sensitive positions HOW TO APPLY Submit an online application through the Maricopa County Workday portal. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Job Type: Unclassified - Department: Legal Defender - Location: 222 N Central Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85004 (Hybrid) - Posting Date: 07/23/26 - Application Deadline: Open Until Filled - Job Requisition ID: JR24713 - Benefits: Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) employer, Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP) for attorneys, tuition reimbursement, exceptional work-life balance, growth opportunities, low-cost high-value healthcare, child care benefits (Maricopa County Kids Club), paid vacation, sick time, parental leave, extensive wellness program, and Arizona State Retirement System (11.98% contribution with 100% employer match on Day 1).
ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Boston seeks a Senior Assistant Corporation Counsel III to represent the City, its officials, and its departments. This role involves advising City leaders on municipal law matters, representing the City in civil actions and administrative hearings, investigating claims, drafting ordinances, and conducting negotiations with third parties. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Mentor attorneys (ACC I, II) in litigation, contract review, contract negotiation, and departmental advising - Manage a caseload and represent the City of Boston in state and federal court, administrative proceedings, and other venues - Provide representation in matters including personal injury, torts, employment discrimination, civil rights claims, contract disputes, special education litigation, licensing appeals, and employee or student discipline appeals - Advise the City on policy matters, procurement, open meeting laws, public records law, student confidentiality laws, and state conflict of interest laws - Perform legal research, write legal opinions, and review or draft contracts, memoranda, ordinances, and other documents - Perform specialized municipal law functions, including research, analysis, advising, and litigation in areas such as workers' compensation, tax lien foreclosures, public construction, and public education - Perform related work as directed MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 1. Juris Doctorate 2. Five to six (5-6) years of experience as a lawyer in a law firm or within a government agency 3. Licensed to practice in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts with no disciplinary record 4. Ability to exercise good judgment and focus on detail 5. Excellent, clear, and effective writing and organizational skills 6. Accuracy and attention to detail 7. Highly motivated self-starter 8. Strong interpersonal and communication skills 9. Proficient with Microsoft Office, Westlaw, and Social Law Library SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Boston residency is strictly required - Supervisory legal experience is preferred - Reports directly to a First Assistant Corporation Counsel or Legal Advisor SELECTION PROCESS - Application and resume review evaluating minimum qualifications, relevant legal experience, and licensure - Interviews and assessments as determined by the Law Department and City of Boston HR protocols HOW TO APPLY - Apply for Req ID 2026-31963 through the City of Boston careers portal - Posting End Date: November 28, 2026 - Contact Email for inquiries: kristen.coveney@boston.gov EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Location: Law Department, Boston, MA - Department: Law Department - Position Type: Regular Full-Time - Hours per week: 35 - Union/Salary Plan/Grade: Non-Union/MM2-13 - Equal Opportunity Employer: The City of Boston is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, considering qualified applicants regardless of sex, race, age, religion, color, national origin, ancestry, disability, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, military and veteran status, or other protected categories.
ABOUT THE ROLE This is an unclassified position located in the Fulton County District Attorney's Office. This recruitment will be used to fill full-time, grant-funded, temporary, and part-time positions. The role involves providing legal counsel to assigned departments, boards, elected officials, and employees. Incumbents are expected to function with significant autonomy, representing the interests of Fulton County-related clients with limited supervision. The position requires managing litigation, drafting contracts, representing the county in personnel matters and tax appeals, and developing legislation. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Serve as counsel representing the legal interests of the County for assigned departments in accordance with state and federal laws. - Provide legal advice to clients, department heads, elected officials, and managers. - Research and analyze internal regulations, policies, procedures, and relevant state/federal law. - Write legal opinions and memoranda; develop strategies to ensure compliance. - Manage litigation: prepare/respond to discovery requests, motions, and pleadings; take/defend depositions; determine case strategy. - Attend and participate in mediations, trials, and hearings; argue client positions; examine witnesses. - Draft and review contracts and agreements for compliance with laws and internal policies. - Represent assigned departments in personnel matters, including Personnel Board hearings. - Represent the County in tax appeals, including responding to notices, handling discovery, and attending trials. - Review, draft, and interpret laws, ordinances, regulations, and resolutions; analyze impact on County policies. - Maintain comprehensive knowledge of applicable laws, regulations, and professional trends. - Process legal documentation, court documents, open records requests, and budgets within designated timeframes. - Operate personal computers and software for data entry, retrieval, and document preparation. - Communicate with County officials, court personnel, contractors, and the public to coordinate activities. - May provide lead guidance and direction to paralegals and administrative staff. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Juris Doctorate Degree required. - Three (3) years of experience as a practicing attorney. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must hold an active membership in good standing with any State Bar Association. - Must obtain active membership with the Georgia State Bar Association within one year of hire. - Preferred: Three (3) years barred. - Examination consists of an evaluation of education and experience via application analysis. - Official accredited college transcripts are required at time of employment for all degrees/coursework used to qualify. - Applications must be completed in full before submission; no additional information accepted after receipt. - Veterans’ Preference: Qualifying veterans meeting minimum qualifications receive a guaranteed invitation to interview. SELECTION PROCESS - Application review and analysis of education and experience. - Guaranteed interview for qualifying veterans who meet minimum qualifications. HOW TO APPLY - Submit a complete application through the Fulton County career portal. - Ensure all information is accurate before submittal, as errors can result in disqualification. - Do not attach personal identifiable information (e.g., driver’s license, photos) to resumes. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Fulton County Government. - Department: District Attorney. - Location: Government Center, 141 Pryor Street, GA. - Job Type: Full-Time, Grant Funded, Temporary, or Part-Time (Unclassified). - Pay Grade: K9. - Opening Date: June 25, 2026. - Closing Date: Continuous. - Equal Opportunity: Fulton County provides equal opportunity based on merit without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, genetics, age, disability, or sexual orientation.
ABOUT THE ROLE This full-time position supports the continued improvement and development of the Division of Student Support Services. The role manages cross-departmental projects designed to ensure compliance with federal, state, and district policies. Work streams include evaluating instructional and assessment practices, restructuring services across central departments, and developing multi-dimensional projects tailored to the culture and systemic operational qualities of schools. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Project design and coordination (60%): Manage projects to enhance school service initiatives, direct activities from concept to implementation, manage schedules, budgets, and risk, and coordinate with departments such as Race and Equity Advancement, Curriculum, and Technology Services. - Ensure equitable access (25%): Assist in establishing goals for student services, ensure policy compliance, and monitor equitable, barrier-free access for historically underserved populations including students in Special Education, low-income families, English Language Learners, and children of color. - Community and stakeholder engagement (10%): Collaborate with community and district partners, including the City of Seattle, agencies, hospitals, and community-based groups, to ensure efficient delivery of whole-child supports. - Meetings and professional development (5%): Attend required team and committee meetings and participate in ongoing training to enhance professional skills. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction or a related area. - 5 or more years of experience in central and/or school-based leadership (e.g., coaching, teacher leader, building leader, central leader). - Any equivalent combination of education, experience, and training that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Preferred Certification: Washington State Administrative Credential. - Clearances: Must pass a Criminal Justice fingerprint and background check. SELECTION PROCESS - The position is open until filled. - The first round of application reviews will begin on Monday, August 31, 2026. HOW TO APPLY - Applications must be submitted through the official Seattle Public Schools employment portal. - Ensure all application materials are complete and accurately reflect your qualifications, as incomplete applications may not be considered. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: Seattle Public Schools - Department: Special Ed District Services - Job Type: Full-Time (1.0 FTE) - Location: John Stanford Center for Educational Excellence, WA - Opening Date: 08/21/2026 - Closing Date: Continuous - Subject Area: N/A (This is not a teaching position) - Address: 2445 3rd Ave South, Seattle, Washington, 98124-1165
ABOUT THE ROLE The City of Philadelphia Law Department is seeking a Senior Attorney for the Civil Rights Unit. This role represents the City and its employees in federal and state court, handling lawsuits alleging constitutional rights violations or intentional torts. The attorney will counsel City Departments on civil rights implications, participate in after-action reviews, and manage complex settlement negotiations within a high-volume litigation practice. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Advise and represent the City of Philadelphia and its employees before judges and juries in state and federal court. - Present evidence to defend clients or impeach plaintiffs in tort litigation. - Communicate with clients, colleagues, judges, and other case participants. - Conduct research and analysis of legal problems, studying federal, state, and local laws. - Interpret laws, rulings, and regulations for individuals and government agencies. - Present facts in writing and verbally, arguing on behalf of clients. - Prepare and file legal documents, including preliminary objections, answers, and dispositive motions. - Supervise legal assistants. - Analyze probable case outcomes using knowledge of legal precedents. - Negotiate settlements and perform administrative and management functions related to legal practice. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - College degree. - Law degree from an ABA accredited law school. - Nine (9) plus years of legal experience practicing complex litigation in state and/or federal court. - First chair jury trial experience. SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Must be a member in good standing of the Pennsylvania Bar, or currently eligible to be admitted by reciprocity to practice in Pennsylvania (Pa.B.A.R. 204). Continued employment for those not admitted within six months of hire is at the discretion of the Law Department. - Must become a City of Philadelphia resident within six months of hire. - Fully onsite work requirement (5 days per week). SELECTION PROCESS Candidates will be evaluated based on their application materials demonstrating the required litigation experience, trial experience, and bar eligibility. The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information, or domestic or sexual violence victim status. HOW TO APPLY 1. Submit a cover letter. 2. Submit a resume. EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employer: City of Philadelphia Law Department - Location: Philadelphia, PA - Job Type: Full-time - Work Environment: Fully onsite, 5 days per week - Benefits: Unlimited free public transportation (SEPTA Key Advantage), 8 weeks of paid parental leave, comprehensive health coverage, wellness program discounts, paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays, generous retirement savings options, Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility, and tuition discounts or scholarships through partnered colleges and universities.
SALARY Yearly: $86,664/min - $147,318/max (FY27) - DAG I (Pay Grade 12): $86,664 - $95,329 - DAG II (Pay Grade 14): $100,562 - $105,468 - DAG III (Pay Grade 16): $111,069 - $113,509 - DAG IV (Pay Grade 18): $122,094 - $128,010 - DAG V (Pay Grade 20): $137,215 - $147,318 ABOUT THE ROLE The Criminal Division, Misdemeanor Trial Unit (MTU) in New Castle County is seeking Deputy Attorneys General (DAGs) to represent the State of Delaware in handling a high-volume misdemeanor caseload. This position offers a dynamic, collaborative work environment within the state's busiest jurisdiction. The MTU operates in a fast-paced, team-oriented setting where attorneys appear in court regularly, try cases frequently, and make an immediate impact by protecting victims, supporting communities, and promoting the fair administration of justice. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - Determine which cases should be prosecuted, resolved through plea agreements, or taken to trial - Formulate plea offers on a case-by-case basis and try cases that are not otherwise resolved - Handle a wide variety of criminal matters and interact with members of the public - Negotiate with defense counsel and work closely with law enforcement agencies - Provide legal guidance and support throughout investigations and prosecutions - Evaluate cases to ensure just outcomes for victims, the community, and defendants - Safeguard the rights of victims and their families, as well as the constitutional rights of the accused MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS - Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to evaluate criminal cases, determine appropriate resolutions, and anticipate legal issues - Ability to build and maintain effective working relationships with other DAGs, support staff, and court personnel - Initiative and the ability to learn and apply relevant laws, court rules, and develop strong courtroom skills - Must be a member of the Delaware Bar or a graduate/expected graduate from Law School registered to sit for the next Delaware Bar Exam SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS - Employment is contingent upon satisfactory background checks - Direct deposit of paychecks is required as a condition of hire - Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States - This position is exempt from the State of Delaware Merit System - Position is covered by a collective bargaining agreement SELECTION PROCESS Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Candidates may be considered for current and future vacancies across all units within the Criminal Division in the New Castle County Office to maintain an active and current pool of qualified candidates. HOW TO APPLY - Apply online and upload a recent copy of your resume as you complete the application process - The recruitment opens on 7/13/2026 and closes on 10/5/2026, with rolling reviews taking place through 7/10/2026 - Accommodations for applicants with disabilities are available by calling (302) 739-5458 or Delaware Relay Service 1-800-232-5460 EMPLOYMENT DETAILS - Employment Type: Actual Vacancy, Regular term - Shift Hours: 8am - 4:30pm - Agency: Legal/Office of Attorney General/Non-Merit-Exempt - Benefits include potential State and Federal loan forgiveness, State of Delaware healthcare and pension plans, over 4 weeks of vacation per year, 3 weeks of paid sick leave per year, and 12 weeks of paid parental leave





