Position Overview Reporting to the school principal, the High School Placement Counselor plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Brilla graduates by guiding them through the critical transition from middle school to high school. This dedicated individual is tasked with ensuring that every student is placed in a high-performing, college preparatory high school that aligns with their academic abilities, interests, and long-term educational goals. As a year-round position, the counselor is expected to work during the summer and over school breaks to provide continuous support and counseling services. The High School Placement Counselor supports students and families from 5th through 8th grade. This individual must present enrichment opportunities to eligible students in all grade levels to help students build their high school readiness early. A key part of this role involves partnering closely with families, going the extra mile to address their needs, and contributing to the support of our alumni, ensuring their ongoing success and connection to our community.
Core Competencies & Responsibilities- Student Counseling: Provide one-on-one counseling sessions to students and their families, offering advice on high school selection, application processes, and preparation for high school admission exams.
- External Partnerships: Build and maintain strong relationships with high-performing, college preparatory high schools and middle school enrichment programs to stay informed on admissions criteria, processes, and opportunities for Brilla middle school students and graduates.
- Application Assistance: Assist students and families in completing high school applications, financial aid forms, and scholarship applications, ensuring all materials are submitted accurately and on time.
- Workshop Facilitation: Develop and facilitate workshops for students and parents on topics related to high school placement, such as understanding the high school admissions process, financial aid, and scholarship opportunities.
- Data Tracking and Reporting: Maintain systems of detailed records of students' high school application processes, outcomes, and post-placement progress. Report data and insights to the principal and relevant stakeholders.
- High School Goals: Collaborate with campus teams to meet high school placement goals, including 25% of 8th grade students attending Vertex Partnership Academies in 9th grade.
- Network Partnerships: Communicate regularly and proactively with school leaders, Brilla High School Counselors, and network teammates to ensure alignment in practices and access to opportunities across Brilla middle schools.
- Continuous Education: Stay informed on the latest trends and changes in high school admissions, including standardized test requirements, to provide up-to-date advice and support.
- Planning and Facilitating Student Sessions: Work with campus leaders to inform, develop and teach a high school readiness program during 7th and 8th grade advisory blocks.
- Perform Other Duties as Assigned
Qualifications- Bachelor's Degree or higher
- Possession of counselor degree or certification (preferred)
- Relevant high school or college admissions counseling experience with demonstrated results
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Spanish language proficiency (preferred)
BenefitsAt Brilla Schools, we celebrate the unique skills, experiences, and passions that each staff member brings to our mission. To support their work, we offer a thoughtfully designed benefits package to provide competitive and adaptable coverage. We are committed to offering a benefits portfolio that supports the holistic health and wellness of our team members including:
Comprehensive Professional Development: More than 225 hours annually, featuring two weeks of onboarding, coaching, and targeted training sessions to ensure staff excel in their roles and flourish.
Community and Culture: An intentionally joyful workplace with over 30 bonding events each year, fostering connection and collaboration among staff and families in the Bronx.
Flexible Health Coverage: A full suite of medical, dental, and vision plans designed to support diverse needs, utilizing Cigna and Anthem provider networks.
Competitive Compensation: A salary range of $100,601 - $124,550, with pay varying within this range based on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.
Retirement Plans: A 403(b) plan and 401(k) retirement options with matching contributions, helping you secure your financial future while you grow with us.
Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off, a DOE-aligned school calendar, and wellness resources to support personal renewal and sustained excellence.
At Brilla, your dedication fuels our mission, and we're here to invest in your growth, well-being, and success-from recruitment to retirement!
