Director of Admissions & High School Enrollment

Bellesini Academy is a Catholic independent middle school in Lawrence dedicated to providing a quality scholarship education to students with limited financial means. The school's mission is to provide an academically challenging and highly structured environment that develops each student's potential to succeed in competitive secondary schools and colleges. Bellesini Academy utilizes a proven model of education that specifically addresses the needs of at-risk students who live below the poverty line. We provide small classes, a rigorous curriculum, after-school sports and clubs, supervised homework time, and a four-week summer program. These integrated components ensure that each student is prepared for entrance to a college-preparatory high school. Our students gain an average of two grade levels each year in language arts and math; 100% have been placed in private high schools, and 95% attend college or trade school. Bellesini Academy is a co-institutional school model. Boys and girls have separate academic classes and will have opportunities to interact in after-school programs and school-wide events. This is an exciting time and opportunity to be part of a growing school serving low-income students. Job Summary The Director of Admissions & High School Placement leads Bellesini Academy initiatives in admissions, parent and community relationships, marketing and the high school placement process. The Director of Admissions & High School Placement is part of the school’s leadership team and will work closely with colleagues to strengthen the school’s enrollment in line with the school’s mission. The Director will be responsible for maintaining admissions and enrollment data and providing information and support to families throughout the admissions process both incoming students to Bellesini Academy and 8th grade students into Catholic and independent high schools. The Director of Admissions & High School Placement must have a clear understanding of the school’s mission and culture. Essential Duties and Responsibilities New Students and Families Oversee the admissions process from inquiry through enrollment for new students to the school. Is familiar with the school’s academic, after school and evening study programs to communicate accurately with prospective students and families. Present the school to prospective students and parents through tours, student visits, Open House and other communications. Build student application files by securing all necessary documents. Oversee advertising opportunities, admissions and marketing materials, mailings and publications. Oversee new parent/student events. Establish a network of parents to assist in the admissions process. Oversee the Admissions Committee. Collect statistical data on all aspects of the admissions process and student re-enrollment with respect to attrition and retention. Coordinate and oversee new student/parent orientation program High School Placement Work with the Head of School on successful outplacement of 8th grade students to Catholic and independent high schools. Host high school placement meetings with 7th & 8th grade students and their families. Assist 8th grade families with researching prospective high schools and providing resources as needed. Coordinate with faculty, students and parents to ensure application and financial aid materials are submitted in a timely manner. Assist students with essay writing/editing, resume building, interview preparation. Research scholarship opportunities to present the students and families & assist in the application process Teach classes on goal setting, vision and core values as well as HSPT test preparation. Coordinate the transition to high school assisting families & students with books, uniform, transportation etc. Additional Responsibilities Supervise Alumni Evening Study two days a week (Monday & Tuesday evenings) Assist with providing additional opportunities for summer programs/camps for students. Assist with the Bellesini Summer Program. Participates in the daily life of the school, attending meetings and helping support/lead school-wide events. Be a part of the school leadership team. Qualifications Excellent communication skills. Bachelor's degree required. Masters preferred. Willing to work some evenings, weekends and school vacations. Strong management and interpersonal skills, data analysis skills and the ability to work collaboratively with faculty and staff. This is a full time year round position.