WAY Michigan Engagement Coach

Position Overview:

The Engagement Coach at WAY Michigan plays a pivotal role in fostering student engagement and success. This position is responsible for supporting students through personalized interactions, helping them stay motivated and on track with their educational goals. Engagement Coaches work closely with the director of programs, teachers, and other staff to ensure students receive the guidance and support they need. Additionally, this role includes responsibilities related to marketing and recruitment efforts to help attract and retain students.

Key Responsibilities:

Student Support:

• Manage a caseload of 40 students.

• Develop trusting relationships with assigned students to encourage academic success.

• Monitor student progress weekly and provide necessary support to help students stay on track.

• Meet with students as needed to offer guidance and assistance.

• Communicate regularly with teachers, school administrators, and parents through email, text messaging, and phone calls.

• Establish and communicate clear expectations and guidelines to students.

Engagement Activities:

• Implement strategies to increase student engagement and participation in school activities.

• Assist in organizing and facilitating events, workshops, and programs that promote a sense of community.

• Provide one-on-one academic support to students who are struggling with motivation or participation.

• Hold small group work sessions to address specific student needs and challenges.

Orientation and Testing:

• Responsible for orienting all students on their caseload, ensuring they understand school policies, procedures, and resources.

• Administer and proctor NWEA tests for students on their caseload in fall, winter, and spring.

• Participate in State testing responsibilities as assigned by administration.

Marketing and Recruitment: (During peak enrollment seasons)

• Collaborate with the Engagement Coordinator and Marketing team to develop and implement recruitment strategies to attract new students to WAY Michigan.

• Participate in community outreach and events to promote WAY Michigan's programs and services.

• Assist in creating promotional materials, including newsletters, flyers, and social media content, to increase awareness of WAY Michigan.

• Engage with prospective students and families to provide information about the school's offerings and support services.

• Track and report on recruitment efforts and outcomes, adjusting strategies as needed to meet enrollment goals.

Communication and Reporting:

• Maintain accurate records of all meetings and communications with students.

• Collect two-way communications from students to track engagement and progress.

• Ensure count day requirements are met by verifying student attendance and participation.

• Prepare reports on student progress to send to families.

• Use data to inform and improve engagement strategies and interventions.

Collaboration:

• Work closely with other Engagement Coaches, teachers, and staff to motivate and support students.

• Participate in regular meetings to discuss student progress and share engagement strategies.

• Coordinate with the Engagement Coordinator to address student needs and barriers to engagement.

Key Characteristics:

• Strong student engagement skills and effective communication abilities.

• Positive attitude and a commitment to creating a supportive learning environment.

• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously in a dynamic and changing environment.

• Technological proficiency and ability to rapidly adapt to new technology (e.g., Chrome, Google Suite).

• Self-starter and independent thinker with strong organizational skills.

Others Duties As assigned:

• Additional work may be assigned as deemed necessary by the director of programs or superintendent.

Physical Demands:

• Capable of operating standard office equipment.

• Ability to stand for a minimum of 30 minutes at a time.

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds.

Required Qualifications:

• Associate's degree or WorkKeys certification (meeting Highly Qualified Status).

• Exceptional organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse student populations, parents, and educational staff.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in student engagement, mentoring, or support services within an educational setting.

• Knowledge of alternative education programs and strategies.

• Experience in marketing, recruitment, or community outreach efforts.