Background summary:

The Academy Charter Schools offers an exceptional interdisciplinary curriculum in a technology rich environment that challenges students to explore connections across subjects and use experiential learning to bridge the gaps between theory and practice. The Academy’s focus on character development and community service cultivate a student body poised to be active, engaged and responsible members of the community.

Job Summary:

The Academy Charter High School College Counselor will provide a comprehensive college counselling program for students in grades nine through twelve and specifically provide services to meet the needs of assigned students. The college counselor will consult with students, staff, parents, colleges/universities and community-based organizations in providing high quality services to students. The college counselor will uphold the school’s mission of providing world class competitive education to all students.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Arrange college visits and trips to local college fairs
• Generate a school-wide college preparation and awareness plan
• Build and maintain relationships with college admissions professionals
• Coordinate college event planning and implementation
• Guide scholars and their parents/families through the college admissions and application process (including financial aid application process)
• Invite college admissions professionals/officers to come to the school and meet with students and families
• Meet individually with scholars and parents to explore and identify appropriate college options
• Share financial aid and scholarship information on a timely basis with scholars and families
• Collaborate with school counselors regarding scholar academic progress and interests
• Monitor individual scholar progress through the college application process
• Ensure that school credentials (i.e., transcripts and recommendation letters) get sent to colleges as necessary
• Prepare and send mailings and packages as necessary
• Maintain a strong working knowledge of colleges and universities, which includes making regular visits to colleges and staying current on changes in higher education
• Coach students on appropriate interviewing techniques, self-assessment tools, and application essay writing techniques
• Assist with other related duties as assigned by the High School Principal

Core Competencies:

• Engage students in problem solving, critical thinking and skill building activities
• Facilitate learning and promote self- directed learning for all students
• Establish a climate that promotes fairness and respect
• Establish and maintain standards for student behavior
• Use time effectively
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of guidance support and practices

Qualifications:

• 2-3 years teaching experience in a public high school or charter school setting, or similar background
• 2-3 years’ experience as a college counselor in a high school
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
• Master’s degree in School Counseling from an accredited college or university preferred
• Valid New York State School Counselor