METCO Academic Advisor

Job Title

METCO Academic Advisor

Location: Newton, Massachusetts

Start Date: Aug 26, 2026

Department: METCO

Employment Type: Full-Time, 36.51 Hours per Week (NTA UNIT C- CAT2)

Reports to: METCO Director, School Principal/Vice Principal

EEO Statement: In compliance with state and federal laws, Newton Public Schools is committed to equity, anti‑racism and nondiscrimination for students, employees and prospective applicants. All decisions are based on qualifications and achievements without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, pregnancy, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, ancestry, homelessness, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or any other basis prohibited by law.

The METCO Academic Advisor will be a critical member of the Newton METCO team. The advisor works with elementary school students to provide academic and social‑emotional support, monitor and support students’ academic and social well‑being, and develop collaborative relationships with parents, faculty, staff, and administration. Successful candidates have experience working with a diverse urban student population.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to connect with diverse groups of students and families
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks and manage time effectively
• Understanding of handling student information confidentially
• Solid computer skills, including knowledge of Google Docs
• Willingness to participate in ongoing professional development
• Ability to form strong collaborative relationships with stakeholders

• Bachelor’s degree or an Associate’s degree with relevant experience (Tuition reimbursement available per NTA Unit C contract for degree completion)

• Provide direct academic support to METCO students in K-5 classrooms
• Advocate for the needs of METCO students and families with administration and staff
• Inspire, encourage, and support METCO students to achieve their best
• Monitor student work completion and collaborate with classroom teachers to determine additional resources
• Monitor student attendance daily and phone home when students are absent
• Communicate regularly with METCO Elementary Engagement Specialist regarding student academic and social‑emotional growth
• Plan family outreach events and special programs with the Elementary Engagement Specialist
• Facilitate lunch groups and affinity groups to support belonging
• Support students before and after school
• Attend METCO staff meetings and provide written documentation on student progress
• Assist with METCO Special Event Planning
• Attend four evening or weekend METCO events during the school year
• Perform additional duties as assigned

Reports to the METCO Director;
Elementary School Principals in assigned schools act as secondary evaluators.

• Citizenship, residency, or work visa required
• Experience working with diverse urban communities

• Lisa Gilbert Smith, METCO Director
• Email: gilbertsmithl.ma.us