AmeriCorps Returner Coach - Chicago

AmeriCorps Returner Coach

College Possible Chicago

Our Retuner Coaches

Returning AmeriCorps Coaches at College Possible are seasoned leaders who bring a wealth of experience and mastery to their roles. As peer leaders, they provide guidance and mentorship to new coaches, helping them navigate the complexities of their positions and develop the skills necessary for success. With a deep understanding of the College Possible model, returners are able to model best practices in coaching, communication, and student engagement, setting a high standard for others to follow.

In addition to their leadership responsibilities, returning coaches are critical to the continued growth and impact of the program. They are experts in managing caseloads, designing and facilitating workshops, and implementing strategies that drive student success. As role models, they inspire both new coaches and students by demonstrating commitment, resilience, and a passion for service. Their experience ensures that they are not only effective in their individual contributions but also invaluable resources for building a strong, collaborative team culture within the College Possible community.

Returner AmeriCorps Access Coach Responsibilities

Returner Access Coaches serve in-person at their assigned high school Monday through Thursday. They are expected to tailor activities to meet the specific needs of their assigned school to support its postsecondary planning efforts through the following primary functions:

• Provide one-on-one admissions and financial-aid guidance to students and families

1. Encourage students to consider a broad range of postsecondary choices, emphasizing concepts of match and fit.
2. Discuss a comprehensive college timeline, including application deadlines for admission and financial aid.
3. Assist students in completing and submitting admissions applications to higher education institutions, apprenticeship and licensure programs, and other postsecondary opportunities.
4. Guide students through the financial aid process, including FAFSA submission, interpreting correspondence and financial aid packages, and applying for scholarships.

• Organize group events that promote postsecondary planning and application

1. Visit classrooms, assemblies, and club meetings to offer guidance and explain various aspects of the college-going process.
2. Host group workshops and presentations regarding the importance of postsecondary education.
3. Partner with local community groups-churches, non-profits, social-service providers-to offer postsecondary planning information to the community and host events outside school settings and hours.

• Establish productive working relationships with school staff

1. Assess, in consultation with program staff and school personnel, the particular needs of each school and adapt programs and activities to meet these needs.
2. Actively seek advice and counsel from the on-site supervisor and other personnel at each partner school.
3. Participate in extracurricular activities at the school site that empower students, build relationships, and contribute to postsecondary planning efforts.

• Represent the AmeriCorps program

1. Provide direct service at the school site, logging hours accurately in the OnCorps online reporting system.
2. Adhere to all guidelines of AmeriCorps and the Corporation for National and Community Service.
3. Display the AmeriCorps logo at the service site.

• Effectively utilize tools and resources for continuous improvement and student service

1. Regularly report and interpret key progress indicators in the online system to manage student caseloads effectively.
2. With program staff and site supervisor, evaluate student needs systematically and use data-informed approaches to meet those needs.
3. Share relevant information regarding activities, accomplishments, and challenges with program staff via regular reporting and/or meetings.

• Maintain expertise in postsecondary planning

1. Actively participate in pre-service and in-service training, both virtual and in-person.
2. In consultation with program staff, seek out and participate in additional opportunities for professional development.

Requirements

• Successful completion of one AmeriCorps term with College Possible.
• A bachelor's degree obtained between 2020 and 2025 and/or does not exceed the age of 27 by August 2026.
• Ability and willingness to work hours that coincide with a typical school day for educators, as well as some night and weekend hours.
• Have not completed more than two, full-time terms with an AmeriCorps State and National Program.

Annual Compensation

• Bi-weekly pay of $1088.70 ($25,040 annual rate, pending final budget approvals)
• $7,395 Segal Education Award (approximate)

College Possible Coach Benefits & Perks

• 3 weeks of paid school breaks & holidays
• Up to 10 personal days
• 2 weeks onboarding and training
• Consistent professional & leadership development training
• Employee Assistance Program access, with mental, physical, & financial wellness benefits
• Company-provided technology
• Company-provided gear & apparel
• Access to College Possible alumni network

AmeriCorps Eligible Benefits

• Student loan deferment and interest forbearance
• Child care benefits program
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Benefits
• Department of Education's Public Service Loan Forgiveness program
• Access to Schools of National Service Network for additional education benefits
• Access to AmeriCorps alumni & Employers of National Service networks

Salary : $25,040