On Track Mentor

Connecticut Rise Network Inc•New Haven, CT

29d•$38,000 - $38,000•Onsite

About The Position

The RISE Network’s mission is to ensure all RISE high school students graduate with a plan and the skills and confidence to achieve college and career success. Founded in 2015, RISE partners with public high schools to lead networks where school communities work together to use data to learn and improve. Through its core and most comprehensive network, RISE partners with nine high schools and eight public school districts, serving over 13,000 students; the majority of RISE students identify as Black, Latine, and/or low-income. Through scale partnerships, RISE collaborated with 40+ additional high schools during the 2024-25 school year, spanning six states. RISE high schools work together to ensure all students experience success as they transition to, through, and beyond high school by using data to pinpoint needs, form hypotheses, and pursue ideas to advance student achievement. RISE is seeking AmeriCorps On-Track Mentors to join a national movement advancing educational equity and improving student outcomes in high-need communities. On-Track Mentors support a focused caseload of ninth-grade students during a pivotal transition year, helping them build the foundation for high school and postsecondary success. As part of a dedicated team in RISE partner schools, members provide personalized support and serve as student advocates, working to ensure every student graduates with a strong plan and the skills and confidence to succeed. Research shows that a student’s Grade 9 success is one of the most important predictors of future success, yet many struggle during the transition from middle to high school. On-Track Mentors serve in a full-time, embedded role in public high schools, supporting Grade 9 students who demonstrate academic, attendance, behavioral, or social risk factors. Mentors will provide immediate, data-driven, and individualized support; collaborate closely with school staff and families; and help students navigate challenges that might otherwise cause them to fall off-track. This is an ideal opportunity for individuals passionate about equity, youth development, and impact-driven school-based work. On-Track Mentors will serve as part of a cohort training together and reporting to the On-Track Mentor Program Manager.

Requirements

Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, for engaging with students, parents, and educators.
Proficient in tracking student progress, data entry, and monitoring academic/attendance performance.
Experience working with high school-age youth and their families.
Ability to interact professionally and earn credibility with a diverse range of stakeholders.
Ability to work effectively under pressure and to meet competing demands.
Basic proficiency in data tracking systems and standard software (e.g. Google Suite).
Strong belief that all students can learn and achieve at high levels.
Positive attitude, and willingness to work in a collaborative environment.
Successfully pass the three-part National Service Criminal History Check
Abide by all AmeriCorps Prohibited Activities as outlined in the member contract
Commit to a 10-month, full-time assignment (40 hours/week), starting in early fall.
Complete a minimum of 1,700 hours of service
Participate in an initial orientation and training, followed by ongoing training throughout the service term
Hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, social work, or a related field (preferred)

Nice To Haves

Have experience working in a school or educational setting (preferred)
Demonstrate bilingual proficiency (an asset, but not required)

Responsibilities

Build trusting, supportive relationships with students, families, and school staff, while fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment that honors and uplifts students from diverse backgrounds.
Serve as a liaison between families and the school, providing regular updates on student progress.
Support a caseload of up to 50 first-time Grade 9 students navigating academic, attendance, social, and/or behavioral challenges.
Provide one-on-one coaching and mentoring to help students stay on-track and transition smoothly into and through high school.
Develop personalized plans for each student and monitor progress through regular check-ins with students, families, and staff.
Partner with teachers, counselors, and other staff to coordinate timely academic and non-academic interventions.
Participate in weekly on-track meetings with teachers, administrators, and support staff to review data, share insights, and adjust support as needed.
Design, organize, and facilitate group sessions, conferences, and meetings.
Use data to identify early warning signs and proactively support students.
Maintain accurate records of student meetings, interventions, and outcomes.
Demonstrate empathy, patience, and professional inclusivity
Create a welcoming and equitable environment that values each student’s unique experience.
Engage in ongoing learning and feedback to continuously strengthen your impact.
Collaborate with other On-Track Mentors and Coordinators to share best practices and support program development.
Balance coaching, data entry, meetings, and planning responsibilities with strong time management and organization skills.