KIPP Colorado
About the Post-Secondary Counselor--KIPP Forward Role
The KIPP Forward Postsecondary Counselor will serve as a resource and guide for our 11th and 12th grade students at KIPP Northeast Denver Leadership Academy (KNDLA) and as an integral member of our KIPP Forward Team. The Postsecondary Counselor is directly responsible for guiding a cohort of junior and senior students through the application, selection and financing of their post-secondary pathway. The counselor teaches a junior and senior seminar course during the school day, empowering students and families with the knowledge, resources, and support to select the right college, CTE program, military, and/or career, and provides 1:1 counseling. This individual will uphold the KIPPColorado mission that together with families and communities, we create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose—college, career, and beyond. This is a full-time 12 month admin position (School Based Dean Scale), based at KNDLA, with occasional off-site responsibilities. The Post-Secondary Counselor reports to the Assistant Principal of College and Career. About KIPP Forward
KIPP Forward supports students to choose and prepare for the educational and career paths that fit their goals and sense of purpose. Once on their way, KIPP Forward teams help alumni keep moving forward, tackling academic, social, and financial challenges they might encounter while pursuing their dreams. About KIPP
Together with families and communities, KIPP creates joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose—college, career, and beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and build a more just world. KIPP is a national network of tuition-free, public charter schools open to all students. There are 255 college-preparatory KIPP schools in 20 states and the District of Columbia, serving more than 100,000 students. Nationally, KIPP students are graduating four-year colleges at three times the national average for low-income students. Who we are
KIPP Colorado Public Schools is a network of six free college-preparatory public charter schools open to all students. Our 350-person staff educates 2,600 students from ECE to 12th grade. We partner with our KIPPsters, educators, families and communities to ensure that we are all united around the goal of a choice-filled future for our KIPPsters. Our KIPP Forward Team supports our 1,000+ high school Alumni as they create their own paths. Our core values of excellence, belonging, belief, advocacy and courage are central to who we are and how we operate at all levels of our organization. What we do
We believe in the unique gifts and brilliance of every student. We believe in setting a high bar for joy and academic excellence to ensure the infinite possibilities our students have before them become a reality. We aspire to create and reinforce a culture of achievement, belonging and support. We know that every student is different and we personalize learning based on a student's needs, skills, and interests.
Professional Responsibilities
Believe deeply in the mission, values, and Race, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (RIDE) commitments of KIPP Colorado Schools and that all children can and will learn
Assume personal responsibility for student achievement
Read, internalize, and adhere to the KIPP Colorado Policies and Procedures manual and guidelines
Provide an active presence, strategic supervision, and intentional monitoring to ensure student safety and engagement in rigorous learning
Take ownership for the development of your craft and engage actively in coaching sessions
Commit to being prepared for lessons, coaching, meetings, PD, and written communication
Meet professional obligations including deadlines and schedules
Leverage professional tools including Google Suite and Microsoft Suite
Maintain strong attendance and punctuality
Collaborate with colleagues and seek feedback for continuous improvement
Reflect on professional practices to meet development goals
Participate in professional development, grade level, and department meetings
Engage in school-wide and org-wide professional development
Be a positive member of a grade or functional team and implement initiatives
Share candid, solutions-oriented feedback with peers and leadership
Assist with student and staff recruitment and engagement
Travel around Denver to other KIPP campuses or events as needed
Assist with other duties as assigned (lunch/arrival/dismissal/hallway, etc.)
One KIPP Requirements for Post-Secondary Counselor
Ensures that every graduate earns admission into a best-fit postsecondary program following high school graduation
Oversees and guides students through aspiration setting, applications, financial aid processes, and postsecondary decisions
Facilitates seminar and other key programs to support student selection and matriculation
Facilitates family engagement in students’ Match process
College and Career Knowledge and Skills
Actively research all aspects of college placement: financial aid, scholarships, applications, and admissions standards
Be knowledgeable to advise and coach all students, including all postsecondary pathways
Participate in and prepare for weekly one-on-one check-ins with your APCC
Postsecondary Counseling
Serve as a Postsecondary Counselor for a caseload of juniors and seniors and monitor progress toward postsecondary pathways
Develop positive relationships with students, families, teachers, and high school staff
Guide students through aptitude and achievement assessments to evaluate interests and connect to potential careers
Partner with families to provide information and support on deadlines and resources for college, CTE, military, financial aid and scholarships
Write counselor recommendations for juniors and seniors
Promote and track involvement in summer enrichment opportunities
Counsel students on college, CTE and career pathways and help develop success skills
Keep students and families apprised of admission requirements and eligibility
Provide guidance on essays, resumes, applications, and financial aid submissions
Develop and maintain relationships with admissions representatives and partner organizations
Support seniors in their transition from high school to postsecondary plans
Instruction
Teach up to 6 sections of junior and/or senior seminar, college and career readiness courses, managing a cohort of 90-125 students
Develop and deliver College Knowledge & Career Curriculum for the Junior and Senior Seminar
Maintain a positive classroom environment and uphold grading policies and discipline systems
Data Management
Maintain communication on the data progress of students with key stakeholders
Utilize student management platforms to track progress (e.g., Salesforce, Overgrad, Google tools)
Track and verify student data using systems such as Salesforce and Overgrad
Assist in developing profiles of high schools and in program evaluation
Maintain documentation for program files and evaluation
Programmatic Support
Support department programming including visits, college fairs, and decision meetings
Disseminate information about scholarships and opportunities
Assist the APCC and the High School with projects
Collaborate with KIPP Forward regional staff
Role Level Specifics
For more about how you’ll lead at this level, please visit the KIPP Colorado Role Levels Matrix (internal document)
About the skills and qualifications you will bring to this role
Bachelor’s degree (required)
At least 3 years of experience teaching and working with high school or college students in the college & career counseling field (required)
Knowledge of higher education financing, student financial aid, and admissions; direct work in college admissions or financial aid preferred
Strong follow-up and commitment to helping students succeed
Commitment to an exceptional student experience
Strong communication, both oral and written, and ability to work with diverse populations
Strong organization and attention to detail
Ability to manage ambiguity and multiple priorities
Ability to solve problems and work both independently and in a team
Strong work ethic and enthusiasm for the mission of educational equity
Proficiency with technology tools (Salesforce; OverGrad; Google Suite; etc.)
Humor, adaptability, and ability to foster a positive culture for students/families
Comfort with a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment; open to feedback
Ability to facilitate group workshops for students and families
Excellent analytical, written, and interpersonal communication skills
Spanish fluency (oral and written) preferred
Compensation and Benefits Employee retention and satisfaction is imperative for KIPP Colorado. We provide competitive compensation and benefits, including:
Competitive salary: Starting at $73,440, commensurate with experience
Excellent Healthcare Plan: Employee-only premium paid; options for family enrollment
Time Off: More than 6 weeks of annual vacation and PTO; up to 8 days PTO based on hire date; summer break; parental and medical leave (12 weeks total)
Career Trajectory: Opportunity to move up and across schools with weekly coaching
Mental Health Care: Access to mental health support via EAP
Technology & Access: Laptop and phone provided
Retirement Planning: Colorado PERA retirement program with 401k option
Move to Join Us: Relocation reimbursement where applicable
Additional Pay: Stipends at some schools
Other Insurance Options: Wellness reimbursement and voluntary life/disability insurance
Benefits FAQ: Further information available internally
KIPP Colorado Schools is dedicated to equal employment opportunities and fair labor practices. We provide equal employment opportunities based on job-related qualifications and the ability to perform the job, without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religious creed, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, legally protected medical condition, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by law. We maintain a non-discriminatory environment free from intimidation, harassment or bias.
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The KIPP Forward Postsecondary Counselor will serve as a resource and guide for our 11th and 12th grade students at KIPP Northeast Denver Leadership Academy (KNDLA) and as an integral member of our KIPP Forward Team. The Postsecondary Counselor is directly responsible for guiding a cohort of junior and senior students through the application, selection and financing of their post-secondary pathway. The counselor teaches a junior and senior seminar course during the school day, empowering students and families with the knowledge, resources, and support to select the right college, CTE program, military, and/or career, and provides 1:1 counseling. This individual will uphold the KIPPColorado mission that together with families and communities, we create joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose—college, career, and beyond. This is a full-time 12 month admin position (School Based Dean Scale), based at KNDLA, with occasional off-site responsibilities. The Post-Secondary Counselor reports to the Assistant Principal of College and Career. About KIPP Forward
KIPP Forward supports students to choose and prepare for the educational and career paths that fit their goals and sense of purpose. Once on their way, KIPP Forward teams help alumni keep moving forward, tackling academic, social, and financial challenges they might encounter while pursuing their dreams. About KIPP
Together with families and communities, KIPP creates joyful, academically excellent schools that prepare students with the skills and confidence to pursue the paths they choose—college, career, and beyond—so they can lead fulfilling lives and build a more just world. KIPP is a national network of tuition-free, public charter schools open to all students. There are 255 college-preparatory KIPP schools in 20 states and the District of Columbia, serving more than 100,000 students. Nationally, KIPP students are graduating four-year colleges at three times the national average for low-income students. Who we are
KIPP Colorado Public Schools is a network of six free college-preparatory public charter schools open to all students. Our 350-person staff educates 2,600 students from ECE to 12th grade. We partner with our KIPPsters, educators, families and communities to ensure that we are all united around the goal of a choice-filled future for our KIPPsters. Our KIPP Forward Team supports our 1,000+ high school Alumni as they create their own paths. Our core values of excellence, belonging, belief, advocacy and courage are central to who we are and how we operate at all levels of our organization. What we do
We believe in the unique gifts and brilliance of every student. We believe in setting a high bar for joy and academic excellence to ensure the infinite possibilities our students have before them become a reality. We aspire to create and reinforce a culture of achievement, belonging and support. We know that every student is different and we personalize learning based on a student's needs, skills, and interests.
Professional Responsibilities
Believe deeply in the mission, values, and Race, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (RIDE) commitments of KIPP Colorado Schools and that all children can and will learn
Assume personal responsibility for student achievement
Read, internalize, and adhere to the KIPP Colorado Policies and Procedures manual and guidelines
Provide an active presence, strategic supervision, and intentional monitoring to ensure student safety and engagement in rigorous learning
Take ownership for the development of your craft and engage actively in coaching sessions
Commit to being prepared for lessons, coaching, meetings, PD, and written communication
Meet professional obligations including deadlines and schedules
Leverage professional tools including Google Suite and Microsoft Suite
Maintain strong attendance and punctuality
Collaborate with colleagues and seek feedback for continuous improvement
Reflect on professional practices to meet development goals
Participate in professional development, grade level, and department meetings
Engage in school-wide and org-wide professional development
Be a positive member of a grade or functional team and implement initiatives
Share candid, solutions-oriented feedback with peers and leadership
Assist with student and staff recruitment and engagement
Travel around Denver to other KIPP campuses or events as needed
Assist with other duties as assigned (lunch/arrival/dismissal/hallway, etc.)
One KIPP Requirements for Post-Secondary Counselor
Ensures that every graduate earns admission into a best-fit postsecondary program following high school graduation
Oversees and guides students through aspiration setting, applications, financial aid processes, and postsecondary decisions
Facilitates seminar and other key programs to support student selection and matriculation
Facilitates family engagement in students’ Match process
College and Career Knowledge and Skills
Actively research all aspects of college placement: financial aid, scholarships, applications, and admissions standards
Be knowledgeable to advise and coach all students, including all postsecondary pathways
Participate in and prepare for weekly one-on-one check-ins with your APCC
Postsecondary Counseling
Serve as a Postsecondary Counselor for a caseload of juniors and seniors and monitor progress toward postsecondary pathways
Develop positive relationships with students, families, teachers, and high school staff
Guide students through aptitude and achievement assessments to evaluate interests and connect to potential careers
Partner with families to provide information and support on deadlines and resources for college, CTE, military, financial aid and scholarships
Write counselor recommendations for juniors and seniors
Promote and track involvement in summer enrichment opportunities
Counsel students on college, CTE and career pathways and help develop success skills
Keep students and families apprised of admission requirements and eligibility
Provide guidance on essays, resumes, applications, and financial aid submissions
Develop and maintain relationships with admissions representatives and partner organizations
Support seniors in their transition from high school to postsecondary plans
Instruction
Teach up to 6 sections of junior and/or senior seminar, college and career readiness courses, managing a cohort of 90-125 students
Develop and deliver College Knowledge & Career Curriculum for the Junior and Senior Seminar
Maintain a positive classroom environment and uphold grading policies and discipline systems
Data Management
Maintain communication on the data progress of students with key stakeholders
Utilize student management platforms to track progress (e.g., Salesforce, Overgrad, Google tools)
Track and verify student data using systems such as Salesforce and Overgrad
Assist in developing profiles of high schools and in program evaluation
Maintain documentation for program files and evaluation
Programmatic Support
Support department programming including visits, college fairs, and decision meetings
Disseminate information about scholarships and opportunities
Assist the APCC and the High School with projects
Collaborate with KIPP Forward regional staff
Role Level Specifics
For more about how you’ll lead at this level, please visit the KIPP Colorado Role Levels Matrix (internal document)
About the skills and qualifications you will bring to this role
Bachelor’s degree (required)
At least 3 years of experience teaching and working with high school or college students in the college & career counseling field (required)
Knowledge of higher education financing, student financial aid, and admissions; direct work in college admissions or financial aid preferred
Strong follow-up and commitment to helping students succeed
Commitment to an exceptional student experience
Strong communication, both oral and written, and ability to work with diverse populations
Strong organization and attention to detail
Ability to manage ambiguity and multiple priorities
Ability to solve problems and work both independently and in a team
Strong work ethic and enthusiasm for the mission of educational equity
Proficiency with technology tools (Salesforce; OverGrad; Google Suite; etc.)
Humor, adaptability, and ability to foster a positive culture for students/families
Comfort with a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment; open to feedback
Ability to facilitate group workshops for students and families
Excellent analytical, written, and interpersonal communication skills
Spanish fluency (oral and written) preferred
Compensation and Benefits Employee retention and satisfaction is imperative for KIPP Colorado. We provide competitive compensation and benefits, including:
Competitive salary: Starting at $73,440, commensurate with experience
Excellent Healthcare Plan: Employee-only premium paid; options for family enrollment
Time Off: More than 6 weeks of annual vacation and PTO; up to 8 days PTO based on hire date; summer break; parental and medical leave (12 weeks total)
Career Trajectory: Opportunity to move up and across schools with weekly coaching
Mental Health Care: Access to mental health support via EAP
Technology & Access: Laptop and phone provided
Retirement Planning: Colorado PERA retirement program with 401k option
Move to Join Us: Relocation reimbursement where applicable
Additional Pay: Stipends at some schools
Other Insurance Options: Wellness reimbursement and voluntary life/disability insurance
Benefits FAQ: Further information available internally
KIPP Colorado Schools is dedicated to equal employment opportunities and fair labor practices. We provide equal employment opportunities based on job-related qualifications and the ability to perform the job, without regard to race, color, gender, gender identity, gender expression, religious creed, marital status, age, national origin, ancestry, genetic information, legally protected medical condition, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other basis protected by law. We maintain a non-discriminatory environment free from intimidation, harassment or bias.
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