KIPP Forward High School Enrollment Counselor

About KIPP New Jersey

KIPP New Jersey is part of the nationally recognized “Knowledge Is Power Program” network of free, open-enrollment, college-preparatory public schools dedicated to preparing students for success in college and in life. In 2002, KIPP New Jersey first opened its doors in Newark’s South Ward as a single class of 80 fifth graders and has since grown to educate 7,035 students in grades K-12 across 18 schools in Newark, Camden, and Paterson. More than 90% of KIPP New Jersey students currently qualify for free or reduced meals. To learn more, visit www.kippnj.org.

Here’s what you need to know:

At KIPP Paterson, our promises to students and families are sacred. The KIPP Forward High School Enrollment Counselor plays a critical role in delivering on that promise by ensuring all students enroll in and successfully transition to high-quality high schools.

This role combines individualized advising, family engagement, partnership-building, and data-driven planning to ensure every student has equitable access to strong high school options and early preparation opportunities.

Here's what you'll be doing:

High School Enrollment & Advising

• Build and maintain a high school quality framework (academics, culture, outcomes, fit)
• Develop partnerships with high school leaders and admissions teams to expand access and advocate for students
• Provide exposure opportunities (e.g., High School Fair, Signing Day)
• Guide 100% of 8th grade students and families through school selection, applications, enrollment, and financial aid
• Deliver individualized advising and ensure timely submission of all materials and student records
• Design and lead family workshops, information sessions, and 1:1 meetings
• Support 7th–8th grade students in meeting admissions requirements for high-quality schools

High School Readiness & Access

• Lead high school readiness curriculum in 7th–8th grade advisory (academics, goal-setting, self-advocacy, pathways)
• Partner with school staff to build early exposure and readiness across grades
• Support 7th graders with preparation and application to NJ SEEDS
• Connect students to enrichment opportunities (e.g., summer programs, internships)
• Develop individualized “Strong Start” plans for students transitioning to 9th grade
• Lead comprehensive 8th-to-9th grade transition planning, including academic, social-emotional, and logistical readiness (transportation, uniforms, summer work, orientation)
• Provide targeted support through the transition to ensure a strong start in 9th grade

Data & Operations

• Track progress toward enrollment goals using real-time data to drive action planning
• Maintain accurate advising records and analyze data to differentiate support
• Collect and manage acceptance and enrollment data from partner schools

Additional Responsibilities

• Contribute to the success of the overall school, including carrying out responsibilities such as supporting student arrival and dismissal, etc.
• As job descriptions cannot be exhaustive, the position holder may be required to undertake other duties that are broadly in line with the above essential duties and responsibilities.

What does success look like?

• High School Enrollment: 100% of 8th grade students enroll in high school.
• High School Match Quality: The majority of 8th grade students - especially those in higher GPA bands - enroll in high-quality high schools.
• Early Access & Preparation: Middle school students (grades 4–7) demonstrate measurable progress toward high school readiness through early exposure, academic preparation, and participation in high-quality access programs (e.g., NJ SEEDS).
• Strong Transition to 9th Grade: 8th grade students complete a comprehensive transition plan and successfully matriculate to 9th grade with clear academic, social-emotional, and logistical readiness support in place.

Must-Haves:

• Bilingual in Spanish and English
• Deep commitment to student success and belief that strong high school placement is a critical first step to college success for all students
• Experience working in and a deep commitment to the Paterson community
• Strong relationship-builder with excellent communication, organization, and customer service skills
• Data-driven and detail-oriented; comfortable using spreadsheets and student data systems
• Able to manage multiple priorities, solve problems proactively, and stay calm under pressure
• Experience with or comfort in student advising
• Availability to work some evenings and weekends

Nice-to-haves:

• Experience supporting high school placement or access
• Background in education or nonprofit settings (including teaching)
• Experience with systems like Salesforce or Dean’s List

The salary range for this role is $60,000 - $78,000. Salary ranges at KIPP are set based upon the role level and function using benchmarks in the education and non-profit sector and allow for growth within the role.  Individual compensation will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to: relevant professional experience and qualifications; education, skills and training; and market conditions.  

In addition to a competitive salary, KIPP offers a generous benefits package including, but not limited to, the following:  

• Robust benefits that include medical, dental, and vision 
• KIPP 403b retirement plan, including matching contributions
• A school-issued laptop
• Generous Time-Off Policy
• Up to 12 weeks 100% parental leave for primary caregivers
• Employer paid life insurance
• Extensive optional ancillary benefits including, short term and long term disability and accident and hospital indemnity

KIPP New Jersey | KIPP Miami is an equal opportunity employer