Alternative Education Virtual Mentor - Middle School Program

Sylvania; Battle Creek (MI); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Sylvania seeks a Virtual Mentor to support students in their virtual learning program. This role is instrumental in fostering relationships with students, monitoring academic progress, and aiding in their individual growth and success.

The ideal candidate will have at least 10 years of teaching experience, preferably in alternative or virtual education, and a Bachelor's Degree in Education. The position requires strong interpersonal and communication skills to effectively collaborate with students, families, and staff.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of successful teaching experience, preferably in alternative education.
• Proven experience working with students who have experienced trauma or personal hardship.
• Ability to build meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues.

Responsibilities

• Build positive, trusting relationships with students to support engagement.
• Maintain regular communication with students, families, and instructors.
• Conduct regular check-ins with students for ongoing progress toward graduation.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Academic engagement

Cultural competence

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Education or related field

Valid or expired Michigan Teaching Certificate

Job description

Lakeview Alternative High School (LAHS)

Position Title: Virtual Mentor

Reports To: Building Principal / Alternative Education Coordinator

Work Schedule: In-person on campus every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Position Summary:

The Virtual Mentor plays a key role in guiding, supporting, and advocating for students enrolled in the district’s virtual learning program. Mentors are responsible for building meaningful relationships with their assigned roster of students, monitoring academic progress, and serving as a consistent point of contact for students and families. This position also supports middle school and high school discipline initiatives by assisting students who are participating in virtual learning as part of behavioral, attendance, disciplinary, or alternative support plans. The ultimate goal of the Virtual Mentor is to motivate and support each student toward academic success, positive engagement in school, and successful progression toward their educational and future goals.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

• Build positive, trusting relationships with students to support engagement, motivation, and academic success.
• Serve as the primary progress mentor and contact for a roster of assigned students enrolled in virtual courses.
• Maintain regular communication with students, families, and instructors to monitor student progress and resolve issues related to attendance, coursework, or engagement.
• Conduct regular check-ins with students to ensure ongoing progress toward graduation and help students set achievable academic goals.
• Collaborate with staff, counselors, and administration to provide targeted supports for students experiencing barriers to success.
• Create a supportive environment that promotes equity, respect, and belonging for all students.
• Maintain accurate student progress documentation, communication logs, and records in accordance with district expectations.
• Serve as an advocate for students and families, connecting them with appropriate school and community resources as needed.
• Demonstrate professionalism, punctuality, and reliability in all aspects of the role.
• Participate in professional learning and team meetings as assigned.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the principal or district administration.

Highly Preferred Qualifications:

• Valid or expired Michigan Teaching Certificate.
• Minimum of 10 years of successful teaching experience, preferably in alternative education, virtual education, or at-risk youth settings.
• Bachelor’s Degree in Education or related field from an accredited institution.
• Proven experience working effectively with students who have experienced trauma, academic disengagement, or personal hardship.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build meaningful relationships with students, families, and colleagues.
• Equity-minded and responsive to individual student needs; demonstrates cultural competence and inclusive practices.
• Highly dependable, punctual, and organized with strong follow-through.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Patient, and able to motivate students through challenges.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate with colleagues, maintain confidentiality, and manage multiple priorities.
• Commitment to going above and beyond to form a bridge between the school, the student, and the family in support of student success.

EOE