Summer Connects Program Support Staff (Rising 9th Grade), Salem Public Schools, Salem, MA Internal Candidates Only [SY 2025-2026]

Summer Connects Program Support Staff (Rising 9th Grade) Salem Public Schools Salem MA Internal Candidates Only SY 2025-2026

Program Dates: July 6 July 23 2026 (Monday Thursday)

Program Hours: 8:30 AM 12:30 PM

Location: Salem High School 77 Wilson Street Salem MA

Compensation: $1750-$2250 Stipend *depending on current role*

Program Overview

Salem Public Schools is launching Summer Connects a vital transition program specifically designed for rising 9th-grade students. We are deeply committed to ensuring every students first year of high school is a resounding success recognizing that successfully completing 9th gradeincluding passing all classesis the strongest indicator of a successful high school career.

Based on 8th-grade academic progress attendance and/or conduct we identify students who would significantly benefit from an early connection to the high school experience. This program provides a proactive head start on mastering essential high school skills and competencies preventing potential academic challenges before they begin.

The program is designed to prepare and excite students by:

• Introducing the high school building routines and academic expectations.
• Building strong relationships among students teachers counselors and staff.
• Helping students discover passions and build college and career aspirations.
• Providing engaging activities (past examples include trips to Boda Borg canoeing on the Ipswich River and Metro Bowl).

Job Summary

The Summer Connects Program Support Staff will play a pivotal role in guiding a small group of rising 9th graders through this critical transition. We are seeking enthusiastic and dedicated individuals passionate about providing academic and social-emotional support while facilitating high-energy enrichment activities.

Responsibilities

Student Transition & Support:

• Provide academic and social-emotional support to a small group of rising 9th-grade students.
• Actively introduce students to high school routines expectations and the building layout.
• Help build strong positive relationships and support students in exploring future aspirations.

Program Facilitation & Engagement:

• Assist with the facilitation of academic and enrichment activities ensuring all students are engaged.
• Support learning opportunities related to high school readiness and skill-building.
• Accompany students on field trips and off-site activities ensuring safety and engagement.
• Foster a positive inclusive and encouraging learning environment.
• Support YPAR Interns in contributing to the program through Youth Participatory Action Research and opportunities to take leadership roles within program.

Group Management & Communication:

• Manage a small group of students modeling positive behavior and resolving minor conflicts.
• Ensure daily attendance of assigned students.
• Maintain clear and consistent communication with program coordinators and school staff regarding student progress.

Qualifications

• Current SPS employee.
• Experience working with middle or high school students preferred.
• Strong understanding of the academic and social-emotional needs of transitioning students.
• Excellent interpersonal communication and group facilitation skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with diverse staff.
• Reliable punctual and highly organized.
• Preferred: Bilingual (Spanish).

Equal Opportunity Employer

Salem Public School District is committed to maintaining a work and learning environment free from discrimination on the basis of race color religion national origin pregnancy gender identity sexual orientation marital/civil union status ancestry place of birth age citizenship status veteran status political affiliation genetic information or disability as defined and required by state and federal laws. Additionally we prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose such discrimination and harassment or who participate in an equal opportunity investigation.

Required Experience:

Staff IC