College And Career Readiness Specialist

Wediko NY is seeking a College and Career Readiness Specialist. The College and Career Readiness Specialist will join a dedicated team of staff who educates and assists the school population through the college application process. Will communicate with students, faculty, parents, and community representatives concerning college entrance and Career Readiness. The position is in the Bronx, NY and the salary range is $45,000-$60,000.

In conjunction with New Direction Secondary School (NDSS) Guidance Counselor, the College and Career Specialist will be responsible for supporting a caseload of seniors through all aspects of the college application process, including but not limited to brainstorming and editing college essays, completing applications, completing post-secondary plans, and ensuring students meet necessary deadlines.

How You Will Be Making A Difference

• Develop and implement college transition and postsecondary programming for 12th grade seniors.
• Guide students in grades 9-11 through the College and Career exploration process, including researching pre-college summer programs and/or internship opportunities to support their growth.
• Provide direct individual and group college advisement.
• Participates in regular meetings with school staff on College and Career Readiness (includes, but not limited to, the Learning to Work Internship Coordinator, Guidance Counselor, and other school designees as necessary)

• Coordinate day and overnight college visits and in-school presentations by representatives from colleges and other post-secondary training programs.
• Act as a liaison with college admission offices in collaboration with school leadership as we develop deeper connections with institutions.
• Assist in the organization of and attend the school’s annual college fair, as well as visits by admissions officers throughout the school year.
• Assist students in SAT preparation and registration.
• Assist students with scholarship registration and support students in their scholarship search.
• Provide workshops on financial aid and planning and assistance with FAFSA and scholarship applications, fee waivers as well as applications to SEEK, EOP, HEOP and College Discovery programs.
• Manage a caseload of students and provide success mentorship throughout the year.
• Maintain relationships with admissions officers and attend professional development opportunities and conferences to stay up to date on college updates and trends.
• Plan and implement regular outreach and meetings for alumni in collaboration with school leadership to ensure overall success through the transition to college life. Participate in staff training and meetings, including school retreats and professional development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required, advanced degree in the Social Sciences, Public and/or Education Policy Administration (e.g., MSW, M.S. Ed, MPA/P) a plus.
• 1-2 years’ experience working with youth and families; working with youth in a school setting a plus.
• 1-2 years’ experience collaborating effectively with community-based organizations to serve at-risk youth.
• Experience with postsecondary readiness programming including College and Career exploration, relevant assessments and goal-setting, classroom-based curriculum
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to approach challenges in a supportive and creative manner.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Flexible schedule and willingness to work school hours (8:00AM – 4:00PM) as well as some weekends/evenings.
• Bilingual Spanish preferred.

What The Home Can Offer You

In addition to the chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of the youth we serve, The Home for Little Wanderers offers competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Generous time off including up to 20 days per year for new full-time employees, plus 11 holidays, 5 sick days, and 2 personal days
• Health and Dental Insurance that is effective immediately upon hire
• Extensive training to new staff
• Tuition reimbursement of up to $2,400 per fiscal year
• 403(b) Retirement Plan with employer match
• Employer paid Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance, plus Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• And more!

Valuing Diversity

We are committed to excellence in diversity, equity, and inclusion, while simultaneously creating a culture that supports those values. We believe the differences we bring enhance our ability to provide exceptional service and care to diverse children, families, and communities. Moreover, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging align with our values and our mission to help vulnerable children and their families build permanent, positive change.