Upward Bound Program Education Support Specialist

Upward Bound Program Education Support Specialist

The Southwest Virginia Community College Upward Bound Program is seeking an Education Support Specialist to provide a comprehensive structure for Upward Bound students to be successful in high school, choose a career path, and successfully enroll in college and graduate with a post-secondary degree. The instructor will assist with and/or oversee:

• Upward Bound weekly meeting in target schools.
• Assist participants in all three Upward Bound grants with completing the six grant objectives set forth by the United States Department of Education.
• Recruitment and in-take of program participants.
• Providing appropriate educational activities to students such as information about specific courses and course sequences to high school students, FAFSA completion, tutoring, mentoring, and college/career selection as outlined in the Upward Bound grants.
• Coordinate special events for program participants, such as the Upward Bound Senior Seminar, Financial Aid Seminar, and SAT Prep Day.
• Assist with the coordination and implementation of the ASPIRE Summer Discovery Program or other summer courses.
• Aid participants with college and scholarship applications and essays.
• Obtain and maintain student academic records from target schools in compliance with FERPA regulations.
• Assist with the completion of the program APR (Annual Performance Report).
• Coordinate and attend various aspects of student activities, field trips, and college visits.
• Transport program participants during program activities using college motor pool or rental vehicles.
• Work independently and collaboratively with the Upward Bound Director and instructors to provide services to participants.
• May be required to perform other duties as assigned by the program director.

This is a grant-funded position with the US Department of Education. Continued employment in this role is contingent upon funding availability and the needs of the College. Position is not eligible for severance benefits under state policy. A one-year probationary period is required for both new hires and transfers.

Bachelor's degree in counseling, education, or other related field. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications. Ability to work a flexible schedule, including occasional evenings, weekends, and overnight travel. Valid driver's license and ability to travel to multiple sites using a personal or college owned vehicle. Willingness to transport students in college owned or rental vehicles on educational and cultural field trips. Excellent written communication skills, as demonstrated in applicant's application, resume and cover letter. Knowledge of college access and financial aid processes (e.g., FAFSA, scholarship applications, college admissions).

Master's degree in counseling, education, or other related field. Experience working with high school or college aged students in an educational setting. Experience working with the target population (disadvantaged youth) low-income/first generation or a personal background to the target demographic. Familiarity with Upward Bound program objectives and the U.S. Department of Education TRIO grant requirements.