Position Overview: The College Career and Readiness Counselor is responsible for implementing GEAR UP Massachusetts school activities for the students, parents, teachers and guidance staff of in collaboration with the administration of the SPARK Academy of Lawrence, MA and reporting on student outcomes.The College Career and Readiness Counselor is responsible for planning school events for students of SPARK Academy and must seek prior approval from Program Director on all items including field trips, school events, student meals and/or any program services for students of SPARK. Approval must be requested 2 weeks in advance.The College Career and Readiness Counselor position represents collaboration between GEAR UP Massachusetts (GU) & the LPS with continuation funding dependent on successful completion of program objectives, outcomes and funding availability.Essential Contract Functions: Develop & present 2026-2027 GU/SPARK Action Plan outlining critical services for the year and resources required to achieve objectivesMeet with SPARK Academy Principal and GEAR UP Massachusetts Program Director on a monthly basis to ensure goals and objectives are being met & submit monthly reports with student signup sheets as assigned.Meet or exceed GU/SPARK student recruitment goals as assigned by Program Director & report on monthly progress toward goals Utilize the Gear Up Program Services (GUPS) database to track progress on goals and objectives set and meet GU deadlines for required servicesImplement & monitor progress on GU College & Career Readiness curriculum during advisory periods and provide training and support to SPARK teachers & guidance staff as neededThe College Career and Readiness Counselor is expected to offer services to grades 7-8.Ability to participate in after school and weekend events related to the program, such as College and Career Night with the Celtics, Parent Nights, Student Leadership Conference, etc.Non-essential Job Functions: Other duties as assigned.Minimum Entrance Requirements: Bachelors degree required in academic subject area or related field with prior teaching, counseling, or tutoring experience. Ability to pass appropriate background checks in order to function as a direct service provider to middle and high school students.Excellent organizational, verbal and written communication skills required along with the ability to work independently and with diverse groups. Experience providing student services, knowledge of programs serving underrepresented students, ability to work with disadvantaged students, and experience working with urban students and their families. Preferred Qualifications/Other Skills/Abilities: Bilingual Preferred (Spanish and English)Familiarity with Massachusetts high school graduation and college admissions requirements preferred.Masters degree preferred.Familiarity with Massachusetts high school graduation and college admissions requirements preferred.
