Director of College Counseling

Now accepting applications for 2026-2027 Director of College Counseling ABOUT US The Jewish Leadership Academy is a world-class Jewish Middle and Upper School dedicated to developing the skills, curiosity, and potential of Miami’s most ambitious students for a life of purpose, commitment, and service. JLA is committed to: Challenging inquisitive minds to think critically and creatively in pursuit of the highest academic standards across all disciplines. Putting values into action by embedding leadership training and community service into the heart of the educational program. Engaging the mind and stirring the soul to connect with the Jewish past and the Jewish present, the Jewish People and the Jewish State, through the broad and embracing lens of Modern Orthodoxy. JLA seeks an outstanding faculty of all faiths who believe in and actively support the school’s mission to educate Jewish students at the highest academic levels while connecting them deeply to their heritage and faith. We are carefully creating a faculty culture that is values-driven, committed to high standards, and rooted in respect for all. Above all, we seek faculty who have a genuine love for teaching. COLLEGE GUIDANCE The goal of JLA’s college guidance program is to help every student identify the colleges and universities that are best suited to their individual interests, desires, and needs. JLA is seeking an experienced college counseling professional to provide outstanding leadership and innovation in the college admission process. The desired candidate will have demonstrated commitment to the education of young men and women, and the ability to coordinate a program that will effectively counsel motivated students and their families. The ideal candidate will have established long-term, personal associations with a variety of key admissions personnel at various colleges and universities throughout the country. Most importantly, JLA is seeking someone who is excited to continue to build a world-class college guidance program from the ground up, and understands that our mission is dedicated to promoting service and developing character in our students. The Director of College Counseling is a key member of the Upper School administrative team, possesses a large degree of autonomy, and provides counsel, support, and coordination to a diverse population of students and their families. Reports to: Associate Head of the Upper School RESPONSIBILITIES Full‑time employment for the Director of College Counseling will commence in August 2026. Responsibilities will include: Oversee all aspects of the college counseling process, and work closely with guidance counselors, as well as the English Department. Play a significant role in the Upper School curriculum development process, working collaboratively with department chairs as they continue to build a dynamic 21st century college preparatory curriculum. Oversee the college search and application process for an Upper School of approximately 140 students with high expectations regarding colleges. Work effectively with the Registrar and with members of the Upper School administrative team. Oversee the Associate Director of College Counseling. Manage the College Counseling budget. Coordinate with members of the Upper School administrative team and the Registrar to advise students on course selection. Write effective letters of recommendation and communicate with colleges. Organize and submit support materials for college and scholarship applications, including recommendations and transcripts. Plan and host on‑campus programs for parents, students, and college representatives. Plan and chaperone two annual college trips. Arrange for college visits, host college representatives, and orchestrate an annual college fair. Attend grade‑level, faculty, and division meetings. Collaborate with the Israel Guidance Coordinator. Work effectively with the Office of Admissions and the Office of Communications to accurately and regularly market the school and share college‑related news. Maintain an up‑to‑date webpage on the school website for all things college‑related. Oversee the publication of a regular College Counseling newsletter and its dissemination to the JLA community. Prepare a year‑end report for the Upper School administration, the Leadership Team, and the Board of Trustees. Lead strategic planning efforts for the Office of College Counseling. Establish and curate relationships with local organizations offering summer programs and internships. QUALIFICATIONS Applicants must have a minimum of 5 years of college guidance experience in a high school setting, and a graduate degree in a related field. Experience working with gifted and talented students is an asset. In addition, the successful candidate will demonstrate: The ability to connect with and inspire students. The ability and desire to work collaboratively on a high functioning team. Mastery of Google Workspace for Education and an overall comfort with technology. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English. The desire to be a part of a learning community. A strong work ethic. A working understanding of Naviance and Scoir. BENEFITS A strong benefits package includes: Highly competitive salary Full health, dental, and vision for employee Daily breakfast and lunch Opportunities for professional development and growth Short and long term disability and life insurance #J-18808-Ljbffr