Primary College Coach, Russell Byers Charter School

Posted by on August 08, 2011

[emailed 8/3/11]

Primary College Coach

Philadelphia Daily News columnist Russell Byers believed that the greatest gift you can give a child is roots and wings. He wrote frequently and passionately about how to improve the City of Philadelphia and was most passionate when writing about public education. He thrived on the excitement of city life and believed that a solid education has the power to change the life of a child, and thereby to change the world. Russell Byers died on December 4, 1999, when he was murdered during an attempted robbery. As a tribute to his life, the columnist’s family – Laurada Byers, his widow; his daughter, Alison Byers; and his son Russell Byers, Jr. – founded this charter school that honors his lifelong commitment to civic responsibility, community service, and academic excellence.

Now in its tenth year of operation, RBCS (http://www.byerschool.org) is an urban public elementary school serving more than 400 students, age 4 through grade 6, from 41 Philadelphia neighborhoods. With a student/teacher ratio of 13:1 and an innovative academic program, RBCS emphasizes high achievement through hands-on learning, character growth, and teamwork.

The College Coach must be willing to do whatever it takes to set our students on the path to the best middle school, high school and college choices.  The College Coach will be part of the RBCS leadership team and will be part of the everyday fabric of the school. The successful candidate is an energetic team-player, comfortable working in a fast-paced non-profit environment.  Teaching experience, middle or high school admissions experience a plus.

Our goal is to: graduate at least 85% of RBCS alumni from high school (city average is 71%); enroll over 75% to college (city average is less than 50%); and graduate over 50% (city average is 10%) from college.

Job responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
•    As a team member on the RBCS staff, the College Coach will take on additional responsibilities including:
o    Being present at school every Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (at least), and scheduled Saturdays from 8:30 am – 1:00 pm
o    Supervising students as needed during meals, dismissal and meetings
o    Participating in staff meetings.
o    Maintaining regular communication with RBCS parents and guardians.
•    Building and maintaining the RBCS College Center which will include:
o    an online and book library
o    an alumni hotline
o    data collection and reporting
o    creating and maintaining a RBCS alumni website, Facebook page and other social media
•    Developing a robust Tracking System which consists of:
o    conducting exit interviews for graduating 6th graders
o    establishing and ePortfolio (resume) for each RBCS student
o    creating an individualized College Plan for RBCS students (4k-12)
•    Maintain a college culture within RBCS by assisting with Career Day and college visits.
•    Establish successful transitions to Middle School, High School and College by:
o    researching and visiting middle and high schools
o    hosting a Middle School Open House for RBCS 5th graders and families
o    maintaining 5 “touches” with each student every year
o    offering test prep for admissions to independent schools
o    researching and assisting with scholarships and financial aid
•    Serve as liaison to Partner Programs such as: A Better Chance, Steppingstone Scholars, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Mentoring and Summer Programs
•    Partner with the RBCS Alumni Community through programming and events

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
•    3-5 years teaching experience at elementary or middle school level
•    School placement and/or college counseling a plus
•    Ability to work well in team environment
•    Communicate effectively with students, parents, teachers and administrators
•    Strong organizational and project management skills
•    Strong leadership, personal initiative and problem-solving skills
•    Dedicated to the missions of preparing educationally underserved children for excellent middle school, high schools and college.
•    Comfortable working with elementary, middle school students and their families

Interested candidates should email or fax their resumes to Vanessa Gelbaugh: vgelbaugh@byerschool.org or 215-772-3045.