26-27 Early College & Post Secondary Access Coordinator

Position Summary

The Early College and First Generation Success Coordinator will serve as an essential staff member on the Somerville High School College & Career Team. Under the supervision of the Director of College & Career Readiness, they will create, implement and then oversee a new Early College program for Somerville Public Schools. They will also be responsible for college & career programming with particular attention to first generation students and their families.

This coordinator will have a deep understanding of youth development, post secondary pathways, and the specific experiences of students who plan to be the first in their families to attend college. They will have knowledge of and a belief in the impact of early college programs on all students, with particular emphasis on the impact for traditionally underrepresented populations in higher education. They will engage with students, families, and the community. They uphold the belief that all students deserve and are capable of pursuing any post secondary pathway.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

The essential functions or responsibilities listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

In collaboration with SHS leadership, designing a new early college partnership, which may include but is not limited to:

• Communicating regularly with contacts at partner college
• Completing DESE Early College Designation Application
• Educating students, families, and staff about the early college program
• Working collaboratively with SHS leadership including the SHS Registrar to design an early college schedule and course selection process.
• Designing early college admissions procedures and guiding students and families through the process.
• Working collaboratively with SHS Department Heads and K12 Supervisors to align coursework at SHS with partner college as needed.
• Supporting and advising students in the early college program through group programming and individual advising.
• Designing and implementing a strategic plan for family education and engagement in the post secondary planning process, particularly for families of students who will be the first generation to attend college in the United States.

Assisting students with postsecondary planning which may include but is not limited to:

• Individual meetings with students and families
• Guiding students in making college lists
• Communicating with student, family, school counselor, and teachers on student's college process as needed
• Application and essay review
• Supporting students with timely submission of application and financial aid materials
• Supporting students in applying for scholarships
• Resume review and workforce development coaching
• Interview coaching
• Supporting students in understanding and selecting career training programs
• Providing career and postsecondary information consistent with students' aspirations, abilities, and interests
• Supporting college & career readiness courses at SHS which may include First Generation College Seminar, College & Career Readiness for CTE Seniors, a 9th grade CTE Exploratory course, or other courses as needed.
• Participating in professional development necessary to remain current with college & career advising practices, particularly regarding early college programs and first generation college-bound students.
• Designing and implementing college & career readiness events, which may include the college fair, college & career day, financial aid fill-in events, college tour field trips,
• Co-Leading the First Generation Mentoring Program at SHS
• Performs other duties consistent with the scope and responsibility of the position as assigned.

Knowledge, Abilities, & Skills

• Knowledge of DESE Early College Designation requirements and process.
• Knowledge of college and career trends
• Knowledge of best practices for college and career advising, specifically for first generation students
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work with multiple outside partners, connect with families, promote equity and inclusion, work with a team, show initiative, approach problems with solution-focused mindset
• Skills in grant writing, program development, data tracking and analysis
• Skills in communication with students, parents/caregivers, colleagues, and outside partners

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor's degree or higher in relevant field

• Experience with early college design and programming

• Spanish, Portuguese, and/or Haitian Creole speaking ability strongly preferred.

• Experience in postsecondary advising, particularly with low-income and/or first generation college students

• This section should include education requirements including degree levels and professional credentials as well as licensure/certification requirements. Ensure consistent use of required and preferred.

Terms of Employment:

• Position Type: Full Time / 40 hours per week
• Schedule: School Year Schedule
• FLSA Classification: Non Exempt
• Union Status: Non Union
• Benefits: Benefits Eligible

Reporting Relationships

• Position Reports to: The School Principal and the Directo of College & Career Readiness

The Somerville Public Schools does not discriminate in its programs, facilities, or employment or educational opportunities on the basis of race, color, age, religion, disability, pregnancy, home status, marital/civil union status, sex/gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, citizenship status, place of birth, national origin, ancestry, cultural identity, genetics or military status, and does not tolerate any form of retaliation, or bias-based intimidation, threat or harassment that demeans individuals' dignity or interferes with their ability to learn or work.