Tenacity·Boston, Massachusetts
Support the Ace Academy at a Boston Public School site by managing student recruitment, retention, and engagement. Lead small group academic and fitness activities while coordinating with teachers and families to support student development.
*Role commences August 2026
JOB SUMMARY The ACE Academy Program Associate supports the successful recruitment, engagement, and retention of middle school students participating in Tenacity’s after-school and summer programs.
Under the leadership of the Site Leader, this role plays a key part in delivering high-quality academic, literacy, fitness, and family engagement programming designed to foster students’ personal, social, and academic growth.
The Program Associate engages students in all aspects of Tenacity programming, including leading small academic or racket-sport groups, supporting classroom push-ins, and serving as a bus chaperone.
They collaborate closely with site staff to ensure consistent attendance, positive behavior, and strong family communication.
The position also involves planning and facilitating special events, maintaining accurate student records, and supporting the transition of 8th-grade students and their families into high school programming.
This role requires flexibility, teamwork, and a passion for youth development, as responsibilities may include occasional evening and weekend events, summer programming, and collaboration with school-day teachers and family engagement teams.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Student Engagement & Retention Under the leadership of the Site Leader, support a high rate of student retention and site attendance through the offering of consistent and engaging programming.
Engage students in all aspects of Tenacity Ace programming.
Support site behavior management structures and individualized student support.
Under the leadership of the Literacy Lead, support academic programming by leading small groups of students.
Under the leadership of the Rackets and Fitness Lead, support rackets programming by leading station activities.
Program Operations & Event Coordination Based on the assigned site, serve as a bus chaperone for student transportation from programming.
Participation in the planning and facilitation of Tenacity activities at the assigned site, including ceremonies, field trips, and other activities, which will involve some evenings and/or weekends.
Participate in the maintenance of student enrollment and engagement records in the Tenacity data management system.
Family & Community Engagement Support caregiver and family participation in Tenacity and school activities, including open houses, parent/teacher conferences, events, performances, etc.
Support the families of 8th graders in the high school selection process and connect families with the College and Career Prep team working with Tenacity’s high school students.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS Bachelor’s degree a plus, majors in education, social work, human development, or similar fields preferred.
An ability to model a “Growth Mindset” for students, other staff, and oneself.
Experience working with middle school students, ideally in a capacity that targeted socio-emotional growth.
Strong interpersonal, team development, organizational, and verbal/written communication skills.
Experience effectively engaging with parents, students, teachers, and principals.
Passion for improving the quality of education for children living in low-income, urban communities.
Proficiency in Microsoft product suites.
Some tennis experience a plus.
Driver’s license desired.
Compensation & benefits
$20/hour (based on experience) Tenacity offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY STATEMENT Tenacity is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We strongly encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.
A bachelor's degree in education, social work, or a related field is preferred, along with experience working with middle school students. Candidates should possess strong communication skills and a passion for improving education in low-income urban communities.
Market context
In Massachusetts, program associate roles in school settings are often tied to student support, enrichment, and community-facing work, so demand can be steady where districts and nonprofits are expanding services. These positions are competitive because employers often look for experience with middle school students, strong communication skills, and a background in education or social work. Before applying, compare the AI-summarized requirements and benefits on this page with the original posting so you can quickly confirm fit and tailor your materials.
