Upward Bound Academy Program Assistant

Kansas City Kansas Community College; Kansas City (KS); On-site; USD 19,320 - 27,517; Part time

Job summary

Kansas City Kansas Community College is seeking a part-time Upward Bound Academy Program Assistant to support college preparatory activities. This position involves mentoring students, enforcing program policies, and facilitating events.

The ideal candidate will possess strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills, with a minimum requirement of a high school diploma or GED. The role is effective from June 1 to July 23, 2026, and may require evening and weekend hours.

Qualifications

• Must be available to work from June 1, 2026, through July 23, 2026.
• Teaching experience or youth programming experience is preferred.
• Summer day or resident camp experience is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a positive role model and mentor for students.
• Plan and facilitate college prep courses and activities.
• Enforce policies and respond to student issues effectively.

Skills

First aid and CPR certified

Excellent communication skills

Leadership skills

Team-oriented

Strong organizational skills

Education

High school diploma or GED equivalent

Associate degree (preferred)

Job description

JOB CLASSIFICATION: Pay grade level: N/A

Position: Upward Bound Academy Program Assistant (Multiple Positions)

Compensation: $17.00 per hour, contingent upon grant funding.

Employee category: Part-Time Temporary Staff

Department: Student Services

Reports to: Program Director

FLSA status: Non-Exempt

Job Code: SA098PTTUBA

Location: Primarily Main Campus, TEC, or PCC, but any location assigned by the appropriate administrator

Summary

The Upward Bound Academy Program Assistant provides essential programmatic support, working closely with program staff to organize and schedule events, college visits, and cultural or educational activities that align with the program’s goals. The role also involves enforcing the policies and procedures of the Upward Bound Academy to ensure a positive and supportive environment for all participants.

Position Description

Role Model & Mentorship

• Serve as a positive role model and mentor for Upward Bound Academy student scholars, promoting education, academic success, and personal development through healthy, respectful relationships.
• Act as a representative of KCKCC and national TRIO programs, ensuring students’ physical and emotional well-being while adhering to all policies and procedures.

Program Adherence & Discipline

• Enforce the Upward Bound Code of Conduct and disciplinary policies, consistently supporting and role modeling program rules and guidelines.
• Respond promptly to student issues, conflicts, or crises, documenting violations and reporting as needed.

Collaboration & Communication

• Collaborate with staff, maintaining open communication and providing support to students and fellow team members.
• Participate in staff and supervision meetings to address student and program needs.

Activity & Event Planning

• Plan and facilitate a week-long college prep course (e.g., college transition, writing, or personal finance), incorporating engaging activities.
• Supervise students during recreational activities, ensuring safety and appropriate participation in scheduled events.
• Serve as a chaperone for College Visit trips and manage logistical details.

Student Support & Confidentiality

• Maintain participant confidentiality and advocate for student needs, supporting the overall program goals.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities

Health & Safety Awareness

• First aid and CPR certified, with strong health and safety awareness to ensure a safe environment for students.

Communication & Leadership

• Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills to guide, motivate, and engage students effectively.

Teamwork & Adaptability

• Team-oriented, with the ability to collaborate, adapt to changes, and address challenges creatively in dynamic environments.

Organizational & Critical Thinking Skills

• Strong organizational, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED equivalent.
• Must be available to work June 1, 2026, through July 23, 2026.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate degree.
• Teaching experience or youth programming experience.
• Summer day or resident camp experience.

Working Conditions

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, talk, hear, walk, sit, and occasionally push or lift items. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Schedule

The Upward Bound Academy Program Assistant will work 29 hours per week, Monday – Thursday. The Seasonal Summer Program runs from June 1, 2026, through July 23, 2026. Must be able to work a variable schedule/hour to meet operational needs. May require evening and weekend hours. This is a grant‑funded position through August 31, 2027, contingent upon continued funding from the Upward Bound Program through the Department of Education.

Equal Opportunity Statement

KCKCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.