Coordinator, College Access Program, Philadelphia Education Fund

Posted by on August 29, 2011

Philadelphia Education Fund
Coordinator, College Access Program

Job Description
The College Access Program is a program of the Philadelphia Education Fund, a not-for-profit organization whose mission it is to improve the quality of public education in Philadelphia and the region, so that youth are prepared for college and careers. Please see: http://www.philaedfund.org. The College Access Program aims to improve access to postsecondary education for Philadelphia public school students. The program works in partnership with Philadelphia public schools, universities, community groups and businesses.
College Access Coordinators work directly in Philadelphia high schools to help place and keep students on track to college admissions and completion.

Responsibilities:
Plan and implement, together with school and College Access colleagues, a work-plan for the assigned high school focused on students’ college preparation, selection, application and financial aid; this includes individual and group assistance to students and families; Partner pro-actively with school personnel, community groups, universities and businesses to plan and conduct activities for students and families;

Document and maintain student and family information and activities in the College Access database; prepare reports as required;

Collaborate with teachers, counselors and other school staff in long-term plans to create a college going culture and render postsecondary education an option for all students in the school;

Assume responsibility for program-wide and special projects;

Maintain active and updated knowledge of the college access field through program professional development and individual initiative;

Work a schedule of hours which includes some evenings and weekends;

Other related responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications:
– Bachelor’s degree required;
– Strong knowledge of college preparation, admissions and financial aid issues;
– Experience working with students, families and/or community, especially those who are low income and potential first generation college attendees;
– Excellent organizational skills; ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously to produce high quality results quickly and on time;
– Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and as part of a team with great energy, persistence, and dedication;
– Critical thinking, problem solving, accuracy, and attention to detail;
– Excellent communications skills, both oral and written, including computer skills;
– Ability to work effectively with diverse constituencies, such as school staff, university staff, parents and community groups, as well as with diverse racial and ethnic groups.

Reporting:
This position reports to the Managing Director of the College Access Program.

Applying:
Please submit cover letter, resume and contact information for three professional references to: collegeaccess@philaedfund.org.