Director of Academic Transitions

Company Description

KIPP — the largest nonprofit network of college-preparatory, public charter schools in the nation—has demonstrated, at scale, that all children have the potential to excel academically regardless of race or zip code. KIPP currently serves over 120,000 students in 270 schools nationwide, including Indianapolis. KIPP Indy Public Schools (KIPP Indy) was founded in 2004 with one class of fifth-grade students and has grown to serve 1,400 students across three schools. Of the students that attend KIPP Indy, 93% qualify for free and reduced lunch, 95% are African American or LatinX, 16% receive special education services, and 15% are designated as Multilingual Learners. As we continue to grow, our mission remains the same: to create joyful, academically excellent schools in which teachers, students, and families are all united around the same goal of preparing students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose —college, career, and beyond— so they can lead fulfilling lives and create a more just world.

Job Description

The Director of Academic Transitions (DAT) plays a crucial role in ensuring a successful academic transition for students moving from middle to high school, providing continuous support throughout their first year of high school, and fostering a strong partnership between KIPP Indy Public Schools and families. This role ensures that families are actively engaged and excited about their children’s educational experience while supporting students through one of the most pivotal years of their academic journey. The DAT will be a member of KIPP Indy’s regional team and will have the unique opportunity to ensure seamless, supportive structures that will contribute to the overall impact of KIPP Indy.

Responsibilities

Student Matriculation & Persistence

• Collaborate with 8th-grade teachers, counselors, and leadership to ensure smooth academic and social transitions for students moving into 9th grade.
• Implement academic readiness programs, workshops, and initiatives to prepare students for the rigor of high school.
• Facilitate orientation sessions and activities for rising 9th graders and their families to set expectations for high school success.
• Track and monitor the progress of 8th-grade students, identifying those at risk for struggling during the transition and providing targeted interventions.
• Support and lead 6th to 7th grade touchpoints that promote a seamless progression towards 9th grade matriculation.
• Lead recruitment and marketing efforts for new 9th-grade students to ensure a multifaceted and committed student body.
  
  

Onboarding & Support

• Provide consistent support and mentorship to 9th-grade students to help them adapt to high school life and navigate academic and social challenges.
• Develop and implement a support system that ensures 9th graders have access to resources, academic support, and emotional guidance throughout their first year.
• Work closely with 9th-grade teachers to monitor student progress and implement intervention strategies when needed.
• Organize and lead regular check-ins with 9th-grade students to discuss their academic, personal, and social development.
• Host summer high school events and provide insight into the high school experience to help incoming students prepare for the year ahead.
  
  

Family Engagement

• Provide consistent support and mentorship to 9th-grade students to help them adapt to high school life and navigate academic and social challenges.
• Develop and implement a support system that ensures 9th graders have access to resources, academic support, and emotional guidance throughout their first year.
• Work closely with 9th-grade teachers to monitor student progress and implement intervention strategies when needed.
• Organize and lead regular check-ins with 9th-grade students to discuss their academic, personal, and social development.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in education, social work, or related field (or equivalent experience). (preferred)
• Experience in family engagement and building community partnerships. (preferred)
• Familiarity with KIPP Indy Public Schools’ mission and values. (preferred)
• Bilingual skills (Spanish or other languages) are a plus. (preferred)
• Prior experience working with middle and high school students, particularly 9th graders, and an understanding of the challenges they face.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a demonstrated ability to engage families from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to coordinate and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively with a team of educators and school staff.
• Passion for supporting students and families and creating a positive school culture.
  
  

Additional Information

The salary for this position is $72,000

Salary is commensurate with experience and includes a highly competitive benefits package. Opportunities for performance-based bonuses are also available.

KIPP Indy Public Schools is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.