Higher Education Coach - Northeast & Navarro HS

Communities In Schools of Central Texas • Sunset Valley, TX

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Communities In Schools (CIS) is the nation’s largest and most effective dropout prevention organization. For 40 years, Communities In Schools has been helping students achieve in school, graduate, and go on to bright futures. The CIS Male Student Achievement Program (MSAP) is a transformative leadership and peer support program for young men who are at high risk of dropping out of high school. MSAP identifies male-identifying students who have poor attendance, are at risk or are already involved with the juvenile justice system and are on the path to dropping out and cultivates a “positive brotherhood” to empower students with the support and skills to reduce or stop risky behaviors and make positive, informed choices about their relationships, physical health, and future. MSAP offers curriculum-based, experiential group activities grounded in the leading adolescent development research. The pillars of the MSAP are critical mentoring, leadership development, developing a positive view of male masculinity, academic coaching, and post-secondary access. The program works by developing a close relationship with a skilled caring adult, creating a community of accountability among the young men, expanding horizons through enrichment experiences and exposure to college and career opportunities in Central Texas, and creating leadership opportunities and a chance for students to give back to the community. CIS of Central Texas is seeking a Higher Education Coach to serve both Northeast and Navarro High Schools as advisor, mentor and role model working directly with boys and young men of color to assist them with post-secondary preparatory activities, including: applications for college admission, financial aid, military, workforce readiness. The Higher Education Coach will also provide support for goal-setting and future planning through career exploration activities, enrichment opportunities, college visits, and the development of a post-graduation plan. Higher Education Coaches must demonstrate a growth mindset; share lessons learned and new innovations with teammates; hold self and team members accountable for project success and operate with a family- and child-first mindset. Who you are: First and foremost, we are looking for amazing people who have diverse backgrounds and experiences, are inspired by our mission, and are highly motivated to change children's lives through education. You will be right at home here if you cultivate strong relationships and push yourself, your work, and the people around you to the next level.

Requirements

• Minimum of two (2) years of experience working directly with boys and young men of color, preferably in a school-based setting
• Experience working directly with student parents/guardians and families
• Strong counseling skills including career development and group facilitation
• Demonstrated cultural acumen including the ability to engage with and support a diverse community
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain positive and productive relationships to effectively collaborate with CIS staff, school personnel and community partners
• Highly self-motivated and able to work both autonomously and collaboratively
• Demonstrated ability to manage priorities in a dynamic environment
• Strong interpersonal skills with a focus on strength-based leadership
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Bachelor’s degree in human services, social work, counseling/guidance, or related field is preferred, or the equivalent of relevant experience and training
• Access to reliable transportation
• Ability to work evenings and weekends when necessary

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated English/Spanish speaking skills preferred
• Lived experience as a Black or LatinX male is preferred

Responsibilities

• Provide on-going college, career and military readiness advising services to juniors and seniors throughout the school year
• Plan and facilitate opportunities for students to participate in leadership workshops, services learning projects, enrichment and career exploration opportunities, and college campus visits
• Assist students in choosing the post-secondary program that is the best fit for them, providing guidance throughout the whole process
• Plan and facilitate family engagement workshops that are responsive to the needs of MSAP participants such as postsecondary credential attainment, dual credit enrollment options, & financial aid workshops to complete federal and state financial aid applications
• Support end-of-year celebrations such as National Decision Day when seniors share their college plans with classmates and families and celebrate their decision to continue their education
• Timely and accurate completion of case management documentation requirements, including writing detailed case notes, entering data into a database system, and navigating technology tools used for digital case management
• Prepare and submit regular and timely reports as required
• Maintain a positive relationship with CIS staff and campus personnel
• Participate in the CIS approach to service delivery and problem solving
• Promote and maintain CIS culture, values, and systems
• Perform other activities and duties as directed by the MSAP Program Director or Sr. Program Director for College, Career and Military Readiness

Benefits

• Generous paid time off: 4+ weeks of holidays, 3 weeks of summer break, 2 weeks of vacation time, personal days and sick days
• Financial stipends for qualified staff::
• Spanish proficiency
• Active Texas Mental Health License (LMSW, LCSW, LMFT-A, LPC, or LPC-A)
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: 100% employer-paid employee medical plan available, plus family subsidies, dental, vision, life, disability insurance, and 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
• Professional growth: Ongoing development opportunities
• Community-centered culture focused on impact, growth, and connection

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level