Vista College Prep·Phoenix, Arizona
The Academic Fellow will provide small-group tutoring in reading and math while supporting academic and behavioral interventions. They will also assist with school-wide operational needs, including classroom coverage and event execution to support teacher capacity.
Vista College Prep is a growing network of high-performing tuition-free public charter schools in historically underserved communities of Phoenix. VCP was founded in 2013 with the belief that demographics do not determine destiny and that all students deserve an excellent education. Our organization is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness. We believe that diversity is crucial for effecting lasting change, is one of VCP’s greatest strengths, and that the full potential of our diverse network will be reached only when we are an inclusive community. Explore our website, social media, and Teacher Career Pathway.
Role
Mission: AmeriCorps Academic Fellows will provide academic tutoring and additional interventions at our five campuses. The program is geared to ensure that Vista College Prep (Vista) students surpass the state average on the AASA in reading and math, thanks in part to the interventions led and supported by AmeriCorps Fellow. Vista College Prep serves over 1,700 students across five schools in Phoenix. Nearly 90% of Vista students qualify for Free and Reduced Price Lunch (FRL) and are considered to be living in poverty. Furthermore, more than 95% of Vista students are individuals of color. Vista has four guiding principles that shape the goals and work of the entire organization: We Achieve Excellence, We Make Learning Joyful, We Create a Caring Community, and We Model Transparency. Through the training and support of the Academic Fellow program, these principles will guide the work of Academic Fellows each day. The embodiment of these principles in the structures and management of the program will ensure a strong, professional culture among Academic Fellows and alignment to Vista's mission and vision.
Your
Responsibilities: Tutoring small groups of students as assigned on academic content, primarily in reading and math Running and/or supporting academic and behavioral interventions to support student academic and campus culture goals Supporting academic and operational needs (e.g. class coverage) to increase teacher capacity and improve teacher retention Participating in experiences designed to support AmeriCorps as a teacher pipeline for Vista, including opportunities for full day substitute teaching, under the supervision of an administrator Supporting systems serving our English Learners Supporting the smooth execution of school-wide systems each day, including arrival, recess, lunch, and dismissal Supporting preparation and execution of school-wide events, including but not limited to Conferences, Fall Festival, Family Fun Day, Orientation, and other events as assigned Member eligibility requirements as outlined in 45 CFR §2522.200(a). Time Requirements Multiple service hour contracts available from 100 hours to 1700 hours to be served between August 3, 2026 and July 30, 2027. Pay is commensurate with hours. Monday-Thursday 7am – 4:30pm; Fridays 7am – 4pm or as agreed upon with the school site Occasional events as assigned, including but not limited to national, state, or local service projects or events as part of the service; school events such as Family Conferences and family events on campus
Cost of living stipend paid out in even semi-monthly installments Healthcare coverage, including medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance at no cost in monthly premiums Eligibility for the Segal AmeriCorps Education Award upon successful completion of the term of service Eligibility for AmeriCorps alumni benefits as detailed on the member and volunteer webpage of AmeriCorps.gov. Eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program from studentaid.gov. Childcare coverage for qualified members (AC VIII.F and 45 CFR §2522.250) Student loan forbearance and interest payments for qualified members Opportunities to make a lasting impact on Vista’s students and community as part of a dedicated service team
Investment in Vista’s mission, educational model, and belief in the potential of all students to achieve Understanding of and enthusiasm for teaching academic content Communication, collaboration, and organizational skills Agreement to complete Vista College Prep Academic Fellow training upon acceptance to the program High School Diploma or GED, or at a minimum proof of working toward attaining a high school diploma or GED required Documentation required to establish AmeriCorps eligibility as outlined in 45 CFR §2540.200-206 Completion of a National Service Criminal History Check as outlined in 45 CFR §2540.200-206 Please note: reasonable accommodations can be made for interviews and, if selected, service activities Valid IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card Member eligibility requirements as outlined in 45 CFR §2522.200(a).
Vista College Prep is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building an organization that embraces and celebrates diversity and inclusion. We do not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, religion, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), genetics, veteran status, disability status, or any other basis protected by law. We believe that diverse teams build better outcomes, bring more perspective to the table, contribute to our success and the success of our students, and help foster a more inclusive environment for all employees.
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or GED and demonstrate a strong commitment to the organization's educational mission. Applicants must also pass a National Service Criminal History Check and hold a valid IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card.
Market context
Teaching assistant roles in Arizona are typically in steady demand, especially in K-12 settings that need classroom support, student supervision, and help with instruction. Competition can be strong because employers often look for a high school diploma plus a paraprofessional exam or associate degree, experience with children, and the ability to obtain a Level One IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save research time, then confirm your documents and clearance status before applying.
