Experienced Postsecondary Transition Advisor for Dynamic Educational Institution – Career Guidance, College Readiness, and Student Success

Introduction to KIPP Texas Public Schools

KIPP Texas Public Schools is a renowned network of 59 public charter, open-enrollment, pre-k-12 schools, dedicated to providing high-quality education to nearly 34,000 students across Austin, Dallas-Ft. Worth, Houston, and San Antonio. Our mission is to create joyful, academically excellent schools that empower students with the skills and confidence to pursue their chosen paths – college, career, and beyond – leading to fulfilling lives and a more just world. Founded in Houston in 1994, and operating as KIPP Texas since 2018, we are committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and antiracism in our classrooms, offices, and the communities we serve.

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Postsecondary Transition Advisor to join our team. The successful candidate will play a vital role in helping students transition successfully from high school to college, technical programs, and careers. The goal of this position is to ensure that all our students are provided with the necessary information, guidance, and coaching needed to reach their post-secondary goals. The Postsecondary Transition Advisor will work closely with KIPP high school seniors, the college and career counseling team, and other KIPP teammates to achieve this objective.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the successful transition of high school seniors into college, training, and careers
• Develop positive, meaningful relationships with students, parents, college and financial aid advisors, and fellow staff members and teachers
• Engage in one-on-one conversations with current KIPP high school seniors about their postsecondary plans and assist each student with postsecondary enrollment or transfer, orientation, financial aid verification, and ensure student registration
• Develop and deliver college and career transition lessons to high school seniors during senior seminar class
• Collect and track matriculation steps and critical forms (Financial Aid Award Letters, Final high school transcripts, FERPA forms, etc.)
• Create data reports for the regional leaders and the Persistence Team
• Support a caseload of alumni during the first year of their postsecondary programs
• Engage in ongoing and consistent outreach to students and alumni using various communication methods (i.e., email, calls, social media, texting technology, etc.) and track progress of all contact with KIPP alumni
• Provide advising and coaching to help alumni navigate the critical challenges often faced by underserved communities when enrolling into college and training programs or starting careers

Essential Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year institution
• Experience with college enrollment, retention, degree attainment, and financial aid processes
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, but not required
• Prior experience working with college students and helping them achieve academic success, primarily first-generation, minority, and low-income students
• Strong active listening and coaching skills
• Demonstrates knowledge of and respect for the cultures of the community served
• Demonstrates a growth mindset with the ability to inquire and be open to feedback
• Outstanding project management skills, with an ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously and meet agreed-upon deadlines in a fast-paced environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with college enrollment, retention, degree attainment, and financial aid processes
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred, but not required
• Knowledge of college admissions processes
• Knowledge of financial aid processes
• Proficiency in using online databases to track student data

Skills and Competencies

• Articulate, professional demeanor with strong self-confidence and initiative
• Good interpersonal skills; ability to work with a wide range of people, including teachers, parents, students, alumni, corporate partners, vendors, and admissions personnel
• Proficient knowledge of college admissions processes
• Proficient knowledge of financial aid processes
• Proficiency in using online databases to track student data
• Proven written and verbal communication skills
• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Comfortable using data dashboards
• Demonstrates a high proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Drive, and has previous experience utilizing a database, i.e., Salesforce

Career Growth Opportunities and Learning Benefits

At KIPP Texas Public Schools, we are committed to the growth and development of our employees. As a Postsecondary Transition Advisor, you will have access to professional development opportunities, including training and workshops, to enhance your skills and knowledge in college and career readiness. You will also be part of a dynamic team of educators and professionals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of our students.

Work Environment and Company Culture

Our work environment is collaborative, supportive, and inclusive. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion, and we are committed to creating a workplace culture that reflects these values. As a Postsecondary Transition Advisor, you will be part of a team that is dedicated to helping students achieve their full potential and making a positive impact in their communities.

Compensation, Perks, and Benefits

We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision options, life insurance, and disability plans. We also provide opportunities for professional growth and development, as well as a supportive and inclusive work environment.

Conclusion

If you are a motivated and experienced professional who is passionate about helping students achieve their post-secondary goals, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. As a Postsecondary Transition Advisor at KIPP Texas Public Schools, you will be part of a dynamic team that is making a difference in the lives of our students. Don't hesitate to apply – we look forward to hearing from you!