Director of Post-Secondary Readiness and Alumni Support

Description

The Director of Postsecondary Success and Alumni Support is responsible for overseeing all aspects of college counseling, internships and Senior Project, community service, dual enrollment programs, college credit monitoring, and ongoing college support through an alumnus’ last year of college. This role includes the development and management of student-to-community engagement initiatives, the design and execution of a career readiness curriculum, and alumni persistence support. The Director ensures that students are well-prepared for both academic and professional success, while providing ongoing support to alumni and managing the school's scholarship programs. This is a great opportunity for a leader who has demonstrated ability in designing and maintaining new partnerships, programming and structures that provide scholars with post-secondary programming intended to increase readiness, access, and persistence. 

Key Responsibilities:

Expanding programming for increased scholar success

• Build and manage multiple partnerships with  colleges and other post-secondary transition programs to expand Rooted's support programming for scholar's post-graduation
• Develop career and certification pathways for scholars 
• Expand Rooted's career exploration by creating partnerships, systems and structures for scholar internship opportunities
• Stay up to date on Indiana's career trends and the workforce development programs that support them
• Create the post-secondary vision outlined in the organization strategic plan
• Create advisory units specific to college and career exploration as needed
• Teach an avid course for students

College Counseling 

• Provide personalized college counseling to students and families, guiding them through the college application process, including college selection, application submissions, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
• Serve as an internal consultant on financial aid resources for students and families, helping them navigate the FAFSA, state grants including but not limited to Indiana, and other financial resources.
• Oversee the successful submission of transcripts to postsecondary institutions and ensure students are prepared for standardized testing (PSAT, SAT, ACT).
• Develop and maintain relationships with college admissions representatives, financial aid officers, and diversity officers.

Internships:

• Develop and manage a robust internship program that provides students with opportunities to gain practical experience in their fields of interest.
• Cultivate relationships with businesses, non-profits, and community organizations to create a network of internship opportunities.
• Supervise and support students in securing and completing internships and ensuring alignment with career aspirations.
• Ensure successful completion of our high school’s Senior Project graduation requirement which includes an internship & presentation of learning.

Community Service:

• Oversee the school’s community service programs, ensuring students engage in meaningful service projects and meet required service hours.
• Collaborate with local organizations to create service opportunities aligned with the school's mission.

Student-to-Community Engagement:

• Design and implement programs that foster student engagement with local and global communities.
• Partner with community leaders, local businesses, and nonprofits to create student involvement opportunities.
• Promote a culture of civic responsibility and leadership through events, workshops, and initiatives.

Curriculum Development and Seminar Lessons on Career Readiness:

• Design and implement a comprehensive curriculum focused on career readiness, including resume building, interview skills, and professional communication.
• Lead seminar lessons and workshops on career readiness and prepare students for the transition from high school to college and the workforce.
• Invite industry professionals and alumni as guest speakers.

Dual Enrollment Programs:

• Oversee the recruitment and enrollment of students in dual enrollment opportunities with local colleges and universities.
• Assist students in selecting dual enrollment courses and track their progress for high school and college credit.

College Credit Monitoring:

• Track and manage students’ college credits earned through dual enrollment, AP courses, and other qualifying programs.
• Ensure students understand credit transfer policies.

College Support through Last Year of College: