Middle School Academic Mentor- Spring 2025

Title: Middle School Academic Mentor

Department: SBU Academy

Supervisor: Program Manager- Middle School

Works With: Students ages 11-15 (grades 6-8), Program Associates

Description:

The SBU Academy is an after-school youth development academic program that aims to provide student-athletes with a comprehensive pathway from middle school through high school and college, ultimately preparing them for successful careers. The program focuses on academic support, social-emotional learning (SEL), and college and career development, equipping student-athletes with the necessary tools for their future success.

South Bronx United (SBU) is seeking highly motivated and energetic volunteers who are passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of South Bronx youth. As an Academic Mentor, you will be able to work closely with boys and girls in the SBU Academy, providing one-on-one or small group support (3-4 students). Your role will involve assisting with homework, helping students reach their grade levels in math and English language arts, and fostering their academic growth.

Academic Mentors dedicate 2 hours per week on a set day to meet with students aged 11-15. This consistent commitment allows for building relationships with the youth and serving as a positive adult role model in their lives. By working closely with the same students week after week, you can establish trust and provide ongoing support throughout their educational journey.

Time Commitment:

Please note- this is an in-person volunteer opportunity.

Academic Mentors are asked to commit at minimum 2 hours, one day a week for one semester. Volunteers are invited to take additional shifts if they are available.

Our program is 3:45-5:45 pm Monday-Fridays at Bronx Legacy High School (730 Concourse Village West, Floor 3 Bronx, NY 10451)

Primary Responsibilities:

• Providing one-on-one or small group support to students in the SBU Academy.
• Assisting students with their homework and helping them reach grade-level proficiency in Math and English Language Arts
• Fostering academic growth by providing guidance, resources, and support tailored to each student's needs.
• Building relationships with the students through consistent weekly meetings on a set day for 2 hours.
• Serving as a positive adult role model and mentor in the lives of the youth you work with.

Desired qualifications:

• Passion for our mission and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the South Bronx community.
• Passion for education: Demonstrated interest in supporting students' academic growth and success.
• Communication skills: Excellent verbal communication skills are required, along with strong, active listening abilities in English. Bilingual volunteers are also welcome as many of our students also speak a language other than English.
• Patience & Empathy: Ability to empathize with students and create a safe and supportive environment for them to express their concerns.
• Reliable & Responsibility: Commitment to attending mentoring sessions consistently and being punctual.

Please note that this is a volunteer position. Your dedication and commitment will make a significant impact on the academic success of high school student-athletes in the SBU Academy.

Training:

To ensure that mentors are well-prepared and equipped to support the student-athletes effectively, an orientation and training session will be provided at the beginning of the semester. This session will cover general guidelines, mentoring tips, and an overview of the specific needs of the students in the SBU Academy. The training will also be available to volunteers when they join.

In addition to the initial training, intermittent check-ins and additional training sessions will be conducted throughout the semester. These opportunities allow mentors to develop their skills further, stay updated on best practices in mentoring, and address any questions or concerns that may arise during their service.

Benefits:

Volunteering as a mentor in the SBU Academy offers numerous benefits, including personal fulfillment, opportunities for personal and professional growth, networking with like-minded individuals, and the possibility of counting volunteer hours towards school service or academic requirements. By supporting under-served students in their educational journey, mentors make a positive impact while also gaining valuable skills and experiences.

Beyond:

Beyond mentoring, mentors in the SBU Academy are encouraged to engage with the program participants who are also members of the South Bronx United Travel Soccer Teams. Mentors are welcome to attend games or get involved in practices, as these youth have a strong passion for the sport. Connecting with them through soccer provides an additional avenue to build relationships and further support their development.