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Secondary School Coaches Program
What is a Coach?
A coach is a committed, experienced volunteer who provides advice and support to one student and his or her family throughout the secondary school application process. The coach develops a relationship with the student through one on one lunches twice a month, and with the parents through school organized meetings, social functions and regular phone calls. The coach's role is that of an experienced friend, not a placement counselor. Through regular, guided conversations with their student, the coach helps the student learn to be reflective about their interests and accomplishments, and develop a sense of what characteristics in a secondary school are most important to them. These conversations help the students when they approach the written portion of the applications and when they interview at each school.
Coaches will also help the student and family stay on schedule throughout the application process by answering questions, assisting with parent forms (including financial aid forms if the parent needs assistance completing them), and following up to be sure deadlines are met.
Mervan Osborne, Director of Admissions and Secondary School Placement, develops the list of schools that are the best match for each student.
Why Coach?
Working with the Beacon students and their families is inspirational, thought provoking, and incredibly meaningful. Coaching offers a direct, tangible connection to a young person at a critical time in his or her life. Beacon challenges its students every day; you, too, will be stretched and grow from this experience.
Please contact Lora Farkas (lfarkas@beaconacademy.org) if you are interested in learning more about the coaching positions.
