AmeriCorps Academic Fellow

Description

Why Join Team VCP:

Vista College Prep is a growing network of high-performing tuition-free public charter schools in historically underserved communities of Phoenix. VCP was founded in 2013 with the belief that demographics do not determine destiny and that all students deserve an excellent education.

Our organization is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. We believe that diversity is crucial for effecting lasting change, is one of VCP’s greatest strengths, and that the full potential of our diverse network will be reached only when we are an inclusive community.

Explore our website, social media, and Teacher Career Pathway.

Purpose:

• Vista College Prep Teaching Assistants will provide academic tutoring and additional interventions at our five campuses.  The program is geared to ensure that Vista College Prep (Vista) students surpass the state average on the AASA in reading and math, thanks in part to the interventions led and supported by Teaching Assistants. In addition, Teaching Assistants will aim to recruit 120 volunteers who will help campuses increase academic achievement of Vista students and strengthen our school community.
• Vista College Prep serves nearly 1,800 students across five schools in Phoenix. Nearly 90% of Vista students qualify for Free and Reduced Price Lunch (FRL) and are considered to be living in poverty.  Furthermore, more than 95% of Vista students are individuals of color.
• Vista has four guiding principles that shape the goals and work of the entire organization: We Achieve Excellence, We Make Learning Joyful, We Create a Caring Community, and We Model Transparency. Through the training and support of the Academic Fellow program, these principles will guide the work of Academic Fellows each day. The embodiment of these principles in the structures and management of the program will ensure a strong, professional culture among Academic Fellows and alignment to Vista's mission and vision.

Description of Duties:

• Tutoring small groups of students as assigned on academic content, primarily in reading and math
• Running and/or supporting academic and behavioral interventions to support student academic and campus culture goals
• Supporting academic and operational needs (e.g. class coverage) to increase teacher capacity and improve teacher retention
• Participating in experiences designed to support AmeriCorps as a teacher pipeline for Vista, including opportunities for full day teaching, under the supervision of an administrator
• Supporting the smooth execution of school-wide systems each day, including arrival, recess, lunch, and dismissal
• Supporting preparation and execution of school-wide events, including but not limited to Conferences, Fall Festival, Family Fun Day, Orientation, and other events as assigned

Member eligibility requirements as outlined in 45 CFR §2522.200(a).

Time Requirements

• Multiple service hour contracts available from 100 hours to 1200 hours. Pay is commensurate with hours.
• Monday-Thursday 7am – 4:30pm; Fridays 7am – 4pm or as agreed upon with the school site
• Occasional events as assigned, including but not limited to national, state, or local service projects or events as part of the service; school events such as Family Conferences and family events on campus

Benefits

• Cost of living stipend paid out in even semi-monthly installments
• Healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance at no cost in monthly premiums
• Eligibility for the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of the term of service 
• Eligibility for AmeriCorps alumni benefits as detailed on the member and volunteer webpage of AmeriCorps.gov.
• Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program from studentaid.gov. 
• Childcare coverage for qualified members (AC VIII.F and 45 CFR §2522.250) 
• Student loan forbearance and interest payments for qualified members
• Opportunities to make a lasting impact on Vista’s students and community as part of a dedicated service team

Qualifications

• Investment in Vista’s mission, educational model, and belief in the potential of all students to achieve
• Understanding of and enthusiasm for teaching academic content
• Communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
• Agreement to complete Vista College Prep Academic Fellow training upon acceptance to the program
• High School Diploma or GED, or at a minimum proof of working toward attaining a high school diploma or GED required 
• Documentation required to establish AmeriCorps eligibility as outlined in 45 CFR §2540.200-206
• Completion of a National Service Criminal History Check as outlined in 45 CFR §2540.200-206 
• Valid IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card

Member eligibility requirements as outlined in 45 CFR §2522.200(a).

Salary : $37,000