Director of Scholar Pathways, 2026-2027

Title: Director of Scholar Pathways
Reports To: Founder/CEO
Compensation: $90,000 - $115,000
Calendar: 12-Month
Status: Exempt

Our School

Houston Classical Charter School (“Houston Classical”) was chartered by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to open in Houston in August 2020, beginning with kindergarten and first grade. The school has an accomplished and committed Board, which includes a founding Board and a Head of School. We are looking for experienced, dedicated, and motivated individuals who are excited by the challenge of being part of a new school. Houston Classical is founded on the idea that scholars can learn at a high level, notwithstanding their zip code or background.

Mission of Houston Classical

Houston Classical’s mission is to ensure all scholars Pre-K-8 are successful through a classical approach, rigorous academics, character development, and structured environment to ensure success in high school, college and in life.

Position Overview

Houston Classical is seeking a dedicated, mission-aligned professional to serve as our Director of Scholar Pathways. This individual will be responsible for designing and leading a comprehensive system to successfully transition 8th-grade scholars into high-quality high schools, including selected charter schools, selective private schools, and district schools.

The ideal candidate is deeply committed to scholar success, skilled in family engagement, and experienced in academic counseling, mentoring, and school placement. This role is critical to ensuring our scholars graduate from Houston Classical well-prepared, well-supported, and well-matched to excellent high school opportunities.

Key Responsibilities

High School Counseling & Placement

• Develop and manage a structured high school matriculation process for all 8th-grade scholars
• Guide families through high school options, application processes, timelines, and decision-making
• Support scholars in identifying best-fit high schools aligned to their academic, social, and personal needs
• Maintain strong relationships with selected charter schools, private schools, and district high schools

Scholar Support & Mentorship

• Provide individualized counseling and mentoring to scholars throughout the high school application process
• Monitor academic progress, behavior, and readiness indicators to ensure successful placement
• Lead small-group and one-on-one sessions focused on goal setting, high school readiness, and self-advocacy

Scholarship & Financial Guidance

• Educate families on scholarship opportunities, tuition assistance, and financial aid processes
• Support families with scholarship applications, interviews, and documentation as needed

Systems & Data Management

• Create and maintain systems to track applications, acceptances, scholarships, and enrollment outcomes
• Analyze matriculation data to improve processes and expand placement opportunities
• Ensure compliance with deadlines and documentation requirements

Family & Community Engagement

• Serve as the primary point of contact for families regarding high school transition
• Facilitate workshops, information sessions, and family meetings related to high school planning
• Communicate clearly, consistently, and compassionately with diverse families

Collaboration & Leadership

• Collaborate closely with school leadership, teachers, advisors, and operations staff
• Support a school-wide culture that values long-term scholar success and post-middle school outcomes
• Represent Houston Classical professionally with external school partners

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred)
• Experience in education, counseling, college/high school advising, or youth development
• Strong understanding of charter, private, and district school systems
• Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships with scholars, families, and institutions
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Commitment to Houston Classical’s mission and classical education values

Preferred

• Experience with middle school or high school placement, admissions, or counseling
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred
• Experience working with first-generation or underrepresented families

Core Competencies

• Scholar-centered mindset
• Cultural competence and empathy
• Strong follow-through and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple timelines and stakeholders
• Professional discretion and confidentiality