Innovation Pathway

**Department**: School **Grade**: N/A

**Division**: High School **Bargaining Unit**: Non-represented

**Appointing Authority**: School Superintendent

This position coordinates the Amherst Regional High School’s (ARHS) Innovation Pathway Program(s) and other internship work experiences available to students at ARHS. The Innovation Pathway program(s) seek to create positive life outcomes for students interested in pursuing employment and/or higher education in Advanced Manufacturing and other industry-related fields. Pathways will include a specific scope and sequence of high school coursework, summer and school year internship experiences, and college courses.

**Supervision**

Works under the direction of the High School administration.

**Job Environment**

Work is performed under typical office conditions as well as job site visits.

**Essential Functions**
- Recruit, admit, and advise students interested in the Innovation Pathways program
- Oversee students involved with Innovation Pathway programs and other internship/work-based learning experiences to ensure specific requirements are met.
- Run an IP advisory program that will guide IP students through a career and academic planning curriculum.
- The Coordinator will be the key contact person in the student’s search, placement, and completion of her/his internship by assisting the student with the following:

- Internship opportunity search and selection
- Resume preparation (if applicable)
- Mentor Identification
- Communication with employer and/or site supervisor/mentor; coordination of interviews and receipt of job description
- Administration of forms and paperwork associated with placements
- The Coordinator shall be the last person to sign off on all paperwork, ensuring all affected parties have approved and signed the contract.
- Once the student begins the internship, the Coordinator is responsible for the following:

- Keeping the lines of communication open between all parties.
- Monitoring attendance and performance of interns.
- Ensuring a safe, appropriate experience.
- Mediating concerns of students, giving guidance as to a further course of action.
- Coordinate with each student’s guidance counselor to develop course schedules to meet requirements for the Pathway programs and ARHS graduation.
- Coordinate transportation for students to local internship locations.
- Develop, organize, and lead field trips with students of Innovation Pathway programs.
- Organize student participation in MyCap/SCOIR.
- Communicate with parents/guardians regarding student progress and project partners.
- Oversee all grant administration and Innovation Pathways deliverables
- Other duties as assigned by the building Principal.

**Recommended Minimum Qualifications**

**Education and Experience**:
Associate's degree, experience working with high school students, and two years of related experience preferred; or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

**Knowledge, Ability, and Skill**:

- Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships/communication with students, parents, school and city personnel, local colleges and universities, and local businesses.
- Preferred experience working with diverse student populations.
- Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills required.
- Attention to detail is critical. Must be able to prioritize and organize work independently.
- Is flexible in responding to changes in schedules and job priorities.
- A valid Massachusetts driver’s license is required.

**Physical Requirements**:
Minimal physical effort is required in performing duties under typical office conditions—the ability to drive to transport students to and from internships.

**Salary**:45,000-50,000 plus benefits (grant funded)