• Grit: We never give up. We do whatever it takes. We find another way.
• Empathy: We understand and serve the needs and feelings of others. We listen first and welcome differences of opinion. We support our teammates.
• Achievement: We set ambitious goals. We focus on results. We make each other better.
• Curiosity: We are eager to learn. We explore new things. We ask questions that deepen our understanding.
• Humility: We embrace our mistakes because we always have room to grow. We relentlessly seek feedback. We are grateful for our opportunities and advantages.
• Enthusiasm: We choose to stay positive. We invigorate others. We go all in, all the time.

The College Advisors in People’s Prep’s Office of College Placement (OCP) report to the Director of the OCP and work to build a college-readiness program that educates students and parents about the college admissions process and prepares students for college success. College Advisors are also responsible for academic advising. All People’s Prep teachers and staff serve as models for our students by bringing to life our core values of Grit, Empathy, Achievement, Curiosity, Humility, and Enthusiasm. Most of all, College Advisors work enthusiastically and diligently to support People’s Prep’s mission of making college an achievable and realistic goal for all students.

Qualifications and Certification

• Bachelor’s degree required. Master’s degree in teaching, guidance counseling, or related field preferred
• New Jersey teacher certification preferred
• Experience working with high school students in urban secondary schools or community based organizations preferred with a demonstrated commitment to closing the achievement gap
• Firm commitment to and belief in People’s Prep’s mission
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in communicating with diverse audiences
• Demonstrated ability to multitask effectively and prioritize strategically
• Proven record of hard work and effective project management
• Openness to feedback and willingness to take personal responsibility
• Proven willingness to do whatever it takes to ensure student success
• Team orientation
• Comfort with ambiguity
• Flexibility under pressure

Responsibilities

• Embody the mission, vision and core beliefs of People’s Prep.
• Partner with the Office, school faculty and staff to create a college-going culture within every grade level and department through active engagement in the school community.
• Collaborate with the Alumni Coordinator and PPCS alumni as needed to ensure a smooth and successful post-grad experience.
• Assist OCP staff members with office operations.
• Serve as spokesperson for select OCP programming/functions.
• Collaborate with the Director of the OCP and teachers to plan and execute People’s Prep’s College Readiness course at various grade levels.
• Help build and maintain relationships with colleges and universities to create partnerships that benefit both the school and students.
• Manage active caseload of all juniors and seniors to ensure consistent one-on-one meetings with the Office’s staff throughout each school year.
• Provide college-ready training or support via workshops, meetings or courses, to students and/or families in the evenings and on weekends as necessary or requested by the Director or other School Leaders.
• Collaborate with staff members from the OCP and the school’s instructional team to successfully execute college-ready exams and assessments such as the ACT, SAT and Aspire.
• Inform PPCS faculty and staff about college readiness initiatives.
• Provide PPCS advisors and staff with the professional development and leadership necessary to fulfill their duties as advisors, test facilitators, and recommenders.
• Work collaboratively and participate actively at faculty meetings and in professional learning teams.
• Continue to develop professionally to ensure student achievement.
• Teach and enforce the school-wide, clearly defined systems, structures and rules (including before and after school and during transition times).
• Team with other 12-month employees to complete Home Visits for all incoming students.
• Be available via phone and/or email throughout the evening and weekend to communicate with families, teammates and school leaders.
• Perform other tasks as may be assigned by the School Leaders.