Job Description

This position is Grant-funded for 2 years.

Position will be split between two Aldine ISD high schools.

Salary Range $70,000 - $80,000

JOB SUMMARY

The College Success Advisor (CSA) plays a vital role in shaping our students' futures. The CSA will provide personalized college advice that considers each student's age and needs. The CSA’s primary focus is cultivating a college-going culture, guiding students and their families through the entire journey – from admissions and financial aid to matriculation. The goal is to ensure each student finds a "good-fit" college where they can flourish.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor's degree in education, counseling, or a related field. Master's degree preferred.
• Five (5) or more years of experience working with college-bound students in a high school or college setting.
• Demonstrated experience with college admissions processes and counseling at the high school or college level.
• Understanding of the challenges faced by low-income, first-generation college students.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with students and families from diverse backgrounds.
• Commitment to YWPN's mission and a passion for empowering students.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Seven (7) or more years of experience working with college-bound students.
• Extensive knowledge of college admissions and the financial aid process.
• Proficiency in Spanish.
• Ability to use data management software (e.g., Excel, Naviance) and virtual database systems.
• Willingness to periodically travel and host weekend or evening events.

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to effectively explain complex topics to students, families, and school staff.
• Collaboration: Ability to build strong working relationships and collaborate effectively with the high school's administration, faculty, and staff.
• Organization and Management: Strong interpersonal, planning, and organizational skills to manage student caseloads and effectively prioritize tasks.
• Teamwork: Ability to work independently and collaboratively with others to achieve departmental and student success goals.
• Student Advocacy: Proven ability to manage and advocate for a diverse group of students with varying needs and educational backgrounds.
• Resource Navigation: Experience connecting students and families with appropriate college access counseling networks, service providers, and other organizations to meet individual student needs.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Cultivating a College-Bound Culture:

• Sustain a school-wide culture that promotes college readiness and exploration.
• Coordinate student workshops and parent orientations/meetings tailored to each grade level, addressing college planning and admissions.
• Engage parents and adult supporters in the college planning process, empowering them to guide students effectively.

Guiding Students Through College Admissions:

• Assist students in navigating the college search and application process, including individual and group sessions.
• Ensure timely completion of college applications, admissions essays, financial aid applications, and enrollment processes.
• Facilitate college admissions and financial aid workshops for students and parents.
• Support students with scholarship and award search processes.

Collaborating for Student Success:

• Collaborate with YWPN and school staff to develop and implement age-appropriate college programming throughout the grades (11th and 12th grade).
• Support college preparation experiences through classes, guest speakers, college fairs/visits, summer programs, and SAT prep courses.
• Maintain external relationships to bring additional college-bound opportunities to the school.

Data-Driven Support and Advocacy:

• Track and report key student performance indicators (credits, graduation progress, college eligibility, applications, acceptances, scholarships) to school leadership and YWPN.
• Network with college admissions professionals to enhance the school's visibility and encourage student recruitment.
• Advocate with college admissions and financial officers on behalf of students during the application and enrollment processes.

Ensuring Smooth Transitions:

• Support and facilitate enrollment with local colleges, as appropriate.
• Cultivate relationships with community organizations and supporters to explore internship opportunities for students.

Reporting and Communication:

• Prepare periodic reports on college access programming and student outcomes for YWPN and school leadership.
• Serve as a liaison to community organizations and supporters focused on college admissions and success.
• Provide one-on-one college advisement to students.
• Partner with the counselor to ensure graduation requirements are met.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Professional Development and Knowledge Base:

• Maintain current knowledge of college admissions and financial aid processes through ongoing professional development activities, including reading relevant materials, attending conferences, and participating in memberships.

Post-Graduate Support:

• In collaboration with the YWPN, conduct periodic check-ins with graduates to offer support and identify any barriers to college matriculation.
• Provide mentoring and social networking opportunities for graduates.
• Assist the YWPN with tracking post-graduate outcomes (matriculation, persistence, and graduation).

Programmatic Success:

• Implement additional duties as assigned to ensure the successful execution of the College Success Initiative Model.

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