5th Grade Transition Mentor

GENERAL JOB DESCRIPTION:

The role of the HOLLA School 5th Grade Transition Mentor is to relationally connect with scholars, staff and families, and to be a positive role model in the classroom with the intention of preparing the 5th grade class for the transition to 6th grade at their prospective schools, and supporting them through their first year of middle school. The 5th Grade Transition Mentor embodies HOLLA School values and supports in changing the academic narrative for Black, Brown and Indigenous youth through example, leadership, and in decisions they make on behalf of HOLLA School as they interact with scholars, families and school staff. The 5th Grade Transition Mentor is a professional mentor engaged in ongoing education and professional development to continuously expand their practice and understanding of mentorship.

The 5th Grade Transition Mentor focuses on utilizing culturally responsive, relational, trauma-informed and restorative practices. Unstructured times such as lunch/recess provide the 5th Grade Transition Mentor time to be present and connect with scholars outside of instructional time. The mentor provides in-class, small group and 1:1 scholar support as needed; they will also build meaningful relationships with the families of the scholars, and with staff and administrators at their future middle schools.

The role of 5th Grade Transition Mentor at HOLLA School is a unique and critical position. The primary focus is on scholar relationships and supporting the scholars' transition to 6th grade. The role's scope will include wraparound support to HOLLA School's 5th grade scholars as they develop academically, emotionally, and socially in preparation for their elevation from HOLLA School, through the summer, and through their subsequent transition to 6th grade at their prospective middle schools.

Specifically, the mentor will lead affinity groups, organize visits to scholars' future middle schools, and offer activities with the goal of providing pathways for HOLLA School's 5th grade class to deepen their identities, criticality, and orientation to the world as they enter new environments. These groups and activities include goal setting activities, guest speakers that represent and reflect scholars' identities, and enrichment experiences. The intent is to extend this role through scholars' 6th grade year once they elevate from HOLLA School.

A successful 5th Grade Transition Mentor will be self motivated, able to take initiative, able to form and maintain professional relationships, and able to move forward even in ambiguity; they will also be highly organized and have strong administrative and technical skills to track communications and organize activities, events, and outings. The 5th Grade Transition Mentor may be asked to perform other duties as part of the collective support for scholars and HOLLA School.

QUALIFICATIONS and KEY COMPETENCIES:

Education:

• High School Diploma, equivalent or higher; or combined relevant experience

Experience:

• Experience working with diverse people in diverse settings

• Experience mentoring youth is preferred

Competencies:

• Experience with multi-tiered systems of support
• Computer proficiency, fluency with Gmail and Google Drive
• Reflective, Inquiry, and Relationship building skills
• Strong writing and research skills

Other:

• Creative

• Adaptable

• Curious

• Ability to receive direction and feedback with an open mind

• Comfortable engaging youth with a range of abilities and needs that centers on their inherent value and assets

• Physical requirement of ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time, and lift up to 50 lbs

• All HOLLA School Staff are subject to a pre-employment background check as part of the pre-employment process as well as on an ongoing basis