Unpaid Internships - Guidance Counseling, Speech Pathology, Education, and Human Resources (2018)

Job Title: Unpaid Internships – Guidance Counseling, Speech Pathology, Education, and Human Resources

Location: Southern Avenue Charter Elementary School – Memphis, TN

About Us:
Southern Avenue Charter Elementary School is a tuition-free, K–5 public charter school serving scholars in Memphis, Tennessee. We are committed to “educating the whole child” by providing a nurturing, academically rigorous environment where every child can excel. Our school values innovation, collaboration, and equity in education, and we welcome the next generation of professionals to join us in making a lasting impact.

Position Overview:
We are seeking dedicated, motivated interns who are pursuing careers in Guidance Counseling, Speech Pathology, Education, or Human Resources. These unpaid internship opportunities provide hands-on experience in a dynamic school setting while working under the supervision of experienced professionals. Interns will gain exposure to the day-to-day operations of a charter elementary school and contribute to initiatives that support scholar success, staff development, and organizational effectiveness.

Areas of Opportunity:

• Guidance Counseling: Assist with small group sessions, classroom support, and student engagement initiatives.

• Speech Pathology: Observe therapy sessions, assist with materials preparation, and learn best practices for supporting speech/language development in young learners.

• Education (Classroom/Instructional): Support teachers with lesson preparation, classroom management, tutoring, and enrichment activities.

• Human Resources: Gain exposure to HR processes including recruitment, onboarding, compliance, and employee engagement.

Key Responsibilities (may vary by area):

• Assist staff in daily tasks and projects aligned with the chosen internship area.

• Observe and shadow professionals to gain practical insight into the field.

• Support the development of instructional materials, counseling resources, or HR documentation.

• Participate in team meetings, professional development sessions, or training workshops (when appropriate).

• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism at all times.

Qualifications:

• Current undergraduate or graduate student in Education, Counseling, Speech Pathology, Human Resources, or related field.

• Strong interest in working in a school environment with children and staff.

• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and demonstrate professionalism.

• Willingness to learn, take initiative, and adapt to a fast-paced environment.

• Must be able to successfully pass a background check in compliance with school and state requirements.

Internship Details:

• Type: Unpaid Internship

• Schedule: Flexible; part-time hours to be arranged based on academic requirements and school needs

• Duration: Semester-long or as required by academic program

• Location: On-site at Southern Avenue Charter Elementary School (Memphis, TN)

Benefits of Internship:

• Hands-on experience in a professional K–5 school setting

• Mentorship from experienced educators, counselors, HR leaders, and specialists

• Opportunity to fulfill academic practicum or internship requirements

• Exposure to career pathways in education and organizational leadership

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a resume and cover letter through Paycom. In your application, please indicate your preferred internship area (Guidance Counseling, Speech Pathology, Education, or Human Resources).