College Coach- First Star ISU Academy

Job Summary

The First Star ISU Academy is a college-preparatory program for high school foster youth with the aim of preparing for successful matriculation into 2- or 4-year colleges and universities. The Academy keeps youth on track for high school graduation, prepares them for higher education, and equips them with the skills to transition to adulthood. The youth, referred to as Scholars, spend two weeks living on the university campus (Summer Immersion Program) and return one Saturday per month during the school year (Saturday Academies).

While on campus, the Scholars attend academic classes, participate in life skills workshops, and explore college life.

College Coaches play a critical role in the success of the two-week Summer Immersion Program, held on ISU’s campus, from Saturday, May 30, 2026 to Saturday, June 13, 2026. The College Coach serves as a supportive and caring staff member, models collegiate behavior, co-facilitates college prep or life skills workshops, tutors the Scholars, and encourages successful learning practices. College Coaches are expected to work approximately 28-32 hours per week (this includes weekends) at the rate of $20 per hour.

Depending on the shift, this may include eating meals with the Scholars and/or supervising field trips. Housing is not provided and College Coaches do not reside on campus.

All College Coaches are expected to attend a mandatory three-day paid training scheduled for Wednesday, May 13, 2026;
Thursday, May 14, 2026; and Friday, May 15, 2026.

Student employees are eligible to participate in the University’s 403(b) Plan. More information can be found here.

$20/hour

• Completed at least two years of undergraduate education, with at least a 2.5 GPA
• Ability to work as a team member with Academy staff, other College Coaches, and campus staff
• Responsible, ethical, friendly, enthusiastic, patient and willing to learn
• Strong organization and communication skills
• Ability to pass a Level 2 background check

• Previous experience in recreation, a camp setting or other work experience with youth in a group setting, preferred
• Preference given to students who have experienced foster care

College Coaches are expected to work approximately 28-32 hours per week (this includes weekends).

Must be able to complete the following with or without a reasonable accommodation:

• Effectively communicate on a daily basis.

May 13, 2026

Priority Final date to receive applications is March 6, 2026 and the closing date is March 20, 2026.

For more information:
Ms. Tameka Thompson, Academy Director
tfthom1

First Star ISU Academy

Dr. Deneca Avant, Executive Director
dwinfre

First Star Academy | Child Welfare | Illinois State

This position is subject to a criminal background investigation and, if applicable, an employment history review, based on University Policy 3.1.30. Any offer of employment is contingent upon passing a satisfactory criminal background investigation and/or an employment history review. Beginning work requires clearance results from Human Resources.

All appointments are contingent upon proof of eligibility for employment at Illinois State University. The Immigration and Nationality Act requires all new employees to file an I-9 in person within three days of employment. A list of acceptable documents is available at https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below). Failure to comply will result in cancellation of your appointment.

ISU is required by federal law to withhold taxes and report wages. Every employee must have a valid Social Security Number on file by start date, or within 45 days. Non-compliance may result in cancellation of appointment. ISU student employees are limited to no more than 28 hours per week on campus for all positions. International students are restricted to no more than 20 hours per week on campus when the university is in session;

consult the Office of International Studies and Programs for guidance.

ISU is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

If you are an individual with a disability and need a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or other law, you may request an accommodation by contacting the Office of Equal Opportunity and Access at . The Office will keep confidential any information you provide. For system access difficulties, please call Human Resources at .

Application Opened: 02/03/2026 11:50 AM CST
Final date to receive applications: 03/20/2026 11:55 PM CST

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