Student Enrollment & Retention Specialist (Temporary) - Student Placement Services

Temporary, full-time (1.0 FTE – 40 hours/week) position through AFSCME Local 29. Non-benefits eligible; hourly pay $30.66.

About the role

Under general supervision, the Student Enrollment & Retention Specialist creates and implements recruitment and retention strategies to support continued enrollment growth at MPS. Serves as a resource for families in selecting schools that maximize student potential and meet multilingual and multicultural needs.

Responsibilities

• Counsel students and families on school-choice options that best meet academic needs while adhering to MPS policies; provide culturally competent counsel in the family’s home language.
• Support and initiate best practices to recruit, support, and retain students using feedback from surveys, phone calls, and other tools to monitor and improve retention systems.
• Prepare and implement recruitment activities for assigned areas; collaborate with students, parents, and alumni to recruit new families.
• Improve student retention by tracking student progress, counseling on personal or academic issues, and making referrals as needed.
• Coordinate evaluation and testing of English Learner (EL) students; assign EL students to appropriate schools and collaborate with the Multilingual Department.
• Organize and present school-choice materials at outreach meetings and cultural/language-specific events.
• Assist with special events, public programs, and community meetings.
• Respond to email and telephone inquiries from parents and district employees.
• Maintain courteous, cooperative behavior with students, clients, visitors, and staff to promote a harmonious workplace.
• Promote the Superintendent’s goals and priorities in compliance with all policies and procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality of work-related issues, records, and MPS information.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent (G.E.D.).
• Four years of experience in customer service, communications, public relations, or public education programs; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.
• Knowledge of Minnesota Department of Education rules and regulations, applicable policies, and public relations principles.
• Familiarity with local community resources, regional services, and geographical area.
• Skill in customer service, data compilation, conflict resolution, and effective communication (verbal and written).
• Ability to operate standard and specialized software, maintain cooperative working relationships, and interact successfully with diverse individuals.
• Valid Minnesota State Driver’s License may be required.
• Demonstrated fluency (read, write, speak, and comprehend) in Spanish, Hmong, or Somali may be required for some positions.

Work Environment

Work is performed in a standard office environment with occasional lifting of light to moderate materials. The role may require significant walking, standing, or sitting with extended periods of computer and phone usage. Final appointment is contingent upon passing a criminal background check.