DCPS Central Office Associate, Urban Education Leaders Internship
The Urban Education Leaders Internship Program (UELIP) is an opportunity to experience the unique and exciting work of managing an urban school district. Offered on a semesterly basis by the Office of School Improvement and Supports, UELIP provides the opportunity to work with teams in the Central Office of DCPS, one of the most innovative public school districts in the United States. UELIP Associates participate in mission-critical projects that aim to close the achievement gap in urban education. DCPS depends on UELIP Associates for innovative, out-of-the-box solutions to systemic urban education challenges. They form an important part of the team(s) they work with and are treated as colleagues and equals. Each UELIP Associate will be matched with a Central Office Supervisor based on his/her experience, skills, and areas of interest.
**Start date is flexible**
Professional Development
This program attracts students who have strong foundational skills and are seeking to grow in the areas of Critical Thinking / Problem Solving, Oral / Written Communications, Teamwork / Collaboration, Digital Technology, and Leadership / Professionalism / Work Ethic. A major aspect of UELIP is professional development opportunities with DCPS staff, community partners, and career preparation experts.
Project Matching
Applicants are given many opportunities to share their strengths and areas of interest throughout the application process. Once an applicant is accepted into the program, they are matched to the available project which best fits their background, skills, and interests. Each UELIP Associate will work primarily with professional staff on their assigned Central Office team; however, opportunities for collaboration and social learning are provided throughout the program.
Compensation
This internship is unpaid. Applicants are encouraged to seek funding from their universities or other organizations, and/or course credit from their universities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
The below statements are intended to describe the general nature and scope of work being performed by this position. This is not a complete listing of all responsibilities, duties, and/or skills required. Other duties may be assigned.
- Supports DCPS by working 20-24 hours per week on project(s) identified by the supervisor to directly support mission-critical initiatives across DCPS.
- Contributes innovative and out-of-the-box ideas to their assigned project in support of equity-based urban education.
- Meets with supervisor regularly to communicate about progress and receive feedback; and incorporates feedback into future work.
- Attends professional development events to learn more about working at DCPS and other career-development topics.
- Participates in team events, training, and meetings as appropriate.
Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent, no prior work experience. College applicants only: rising juniors/rising seniors, graduating seniors, graduate students, or those who have recently finished a degree program (within the past two to three years). Previous exposure, experience, and/or interest in the education sector. Strong work ethic, positive attitude, and desire to learn and develop professionally. Strong written and oral communication skills. Motivation and commitment to supporting equity in education. Interest in pursuing a career in DCPS post-graduation is a plus. Commitment to flexibility in pursuit of DCPS vision, core values, and strategic priorities.
DCPS Values
STUDENTS FIRST: We recognize students as whole children and put their needs first in everything we do.
COURAGE: We have the audacity to learn from our successes and failures, to try new things, and to lead the nation as a proof point of PK-12 success.
EQUITY: We work proactively to eliminate opportunity gaps by interrupting institutional bias and investing in effective strategies to ensure every student succeeds.
EXCELLENCE: We work with integrity and hold ourselves accountable for exemplary outcomes, service, and interactions.
TEAMWORK: We recognize that our greatest asset is our collective vision and ability to work collaboratively and authentically.
JOY: We enjoy our collective work and will enthusiastically celebrate our success and each other.
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