Education Specialist - Atlanta United FC

Position Summary:

The Education Specialist serves as the primary liaison between Atlanta United FC Academy and Atlanta International School (AIS), ensuring the academic, organizational, and pastoral success of student-athletes enrolled at AIS. This position plays a critical role in overseeing daily academic operations, coordinating communication between stakeholders, and providing direct support to students in their academic journey.

Key Responsibilities:

Academic Oversight & Coordination

• Supervise the daily academic program for Atlanta United student-athletes enrolled at AIS.
• Ensure students are attending classes, managing their time effectively, and meeting academic expectations.
• Liaise regularly with AIS faculty and staff to discuss student schedules, course progress, grade reports, and any necessary accommodations or modifications.
• Coordinate and manage student transportation to and from AIS’s Buckhead campus.
• Monitor students during free periods or when they miss class due to training, travel, or other team commitments.
• Serve as the main point of contact for all student-athlete academic matters related to AIS.
• Have a passion for youth development and understanding of the demands of elite athletic programs.

Student & Family Communication

• Maintain consistent communication with Academy families regarding academic performance, schedule updates, behavior, and general concerns.
• Produce and distribute a weekly digital newsletter with relevant academic updates, reminders, and scheduling notes.
• Proctor Advanced Placement (AP) exams and other assessments as needed.

Pastoral & Academic Support

• Work closely with the Academy Sports Psychologist to identify students requiring additional academic or emotional support.
• Provide individualized and small-group academic assistance focusing on:
  • Time management
  • Study and organizational skills
  • Assignment planning and completion
  • Academic goal setting and progress monitoring
• Develop and implement monthly speaker sessions addressing topics relevant to student-athlete growth and development.
• Plan and lead two educational or enrichment field trips per year to promote holistic development.

Internal Team Communication

• Regularly update Atlanta United Academy coaching and administrative staff on student-athletes' academic performance and any issues affecting their development or availability.
• Provide timely alerts regarding any academic conflicts, concerns, or behavioral issues.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in education, counseling, or related field required
• 3+ years’ experience in teaching, academic advising, or student support services.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to build relationships with students, families, educators, and staff.

Skills:

• Bilingual (English and Spanish) knowledge of other languages is beneficial