Middle School Advisor
Job Posting
Middle School Advisor
Providence, RI
Description
Organizational Overview
Founded in 1989, the College Crusade supports more than 4,000 students in middle school, high school and college each year with one-on-one advising and year-round programs that focus on academic enrichment, social and emotional development, career education, and postsecondary preparation to help them become the first in their families to earn a college degree.
Purpose of the Position
The Middle School Advisor works with an assigned caseload of “Crusaders”, middle school students (grades 6-8) participating in the College Crusade’s programming and attending public school in one of the six urban target districts. The MS Advisor provides referrals and direct services to middle school Crusaders on matters dealing with academics, high school preparation, career awareness and social/emotional issues, and links Crusaders to existing support systems and in-house programs. The MS Advisor maintains personal contact with Crusaders, their families and school officials and acts as an advocate and liaison between the student, school, community and the College Crusade. The MS Advisor also provides support for processes related to the recruitment and admissions of incoming sixth graders.
Requirements
Major Responsibilities
Build and Maintain Relationships with Crusaders, Families and School Personnel
- Form and maintain professional relationships with Crusaders, school administrators, community agencies and other service providers.
- Provide mentorship, academic advising and other services to Crusaders. When necessary, act as a liaison between the student and school personnel and/or family members.
- Contact parents/families to coordinate on matters related to Crusade students and programming. Advocate for and assist parents with accessing technology and relevant systems and services (e.g. translation) as needed.
- Connect Crusaders with each other and build Crusader identity.
Plan and Facilitate Crusade Programming
- Using the data provided by the Crusade’s IT department, assess, identify and recruit/refer Crusaders to programs within the school, community and the Crusade. Provide the necessary follow-up to ensure successful participation.
- Provide workshops on college/career awareness and life skills.
- Assist with the planning and implementation of all activities related to high school transition.
- Support and assist with all academic, cultural and parent-focused Crusade program activities, including after school and Saturday activities.
- Work as a productive member of an integrated Crusade program service delivery team.
- Participate in professional development and program meetings.
Caseload Management
- Track and maintain accurate records of Crusaders assigned to caseload, including attendance, contact information and grades (as available.)
- Provide Crusader personal information updates to the IT department.
- Assist with the collection of all required forms.
- Check in with each Crusader at least once per month.
- Ensure Crusaders are participating in available programming.
Support Recruitment and Admissions Efforts
- Facilitate communications between admissions staff and relevant school personnel regarding the Crusade’s admissions processes
- Promote the Crusade and its program offerings and benefits to prospective candidates for admission
- Participate in admissions-focused events including application support sessions, informational nights, new family/student orientations and others
- As needed, act as a liaison with students and families to ensure that application requirements are met and relevant documents are submitted
Position Qualification and Competencies
Essential KSOC’s (knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics)
- Knowledge of public, charter and/or private education systems, community resources and higher education preferred.
- High energy level, attention to detail, strong time management skills, ability to handle multiple tasks, strong interpersonal skills, innovative mindset and team player a must.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and Access) and able to learn and effectively use the latest software and technology systems employed by the Crusade.
- Must be able to work independently and accept supervision from the Director of Middle School Success.
Education and Experience Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in education, human services or related field.
- 2-3 years’ experience in direct services to adolescents.
- Bilingual a plus (Spanish, Portuguese, Cape Verde, Hmong, Cambodian.)
Other Requirements
- Schedule: Must be willing to maintain a flexible schedule, including some weekend and evening hours.
- Transportation: Must have own reliable transportation, valid driver's license and proof of insurance.
- Flexibility: Must be willing to perform other duties associated with this position as required.
Each employee of the College Crusade is expected to demonstrate the following in the regular performance of his or her job duties:
- Commitment to the vision, mission and values of the College Crusade.
- A positive attitude and willingness to contribute productively to the success of your team and the organization as a whole.
- An understanding of and commitment to the Crusade’s core competencies of accountability, collaboration, communication, institutional values and service.
- Active participation in efforts geared toward directing and improving the overall operations of the Crusade, such as strategic planning, organizational development and performance improvement.
- Commitment to acting as an advocate and ambassador for the College Crusade.
- Knowledge of the barriers and obstacles that low-income families and first-generation students encounter in the journey to higher education is preferred.
- Sense of ownership and pride in personal performance.
- Adherence to all existing company policies and procedures.
- Perform additional duties as needed.
Salary Range
$36,400 - $52,600