Residential Life TAC Mentor at Admiral Farragut Academy | St. Petersburg, FL
Admiral Farragut Academy in St. Petersburg, Florida, utilizes a “Teach, Advise, Counsel” (TAC) mentorship model to oversee boarding students in grades 8-12. The role requires live-on-campus staff to integrate military, moral, and ethical standards to ensure student safety and academic success, according to the academy’s recruitment criteria.
Why is the TAC model used in residential education?
The TAC (Teach, Advise, Counsel) model shifts the role of a dorm supervisor from a passive observer to an active mentor. According to the Admiral Farragut Academy (AFA) position overview, these mentors are responsible for integrating physical, military, moral, and ethical requirements into the students’ daily lives.
Traditional boarding models often separated academic instruction from residential supervision. The TAC approach blends these functions. It ensures that the “hidden curriculum”—the lessons learned outside the classroom—aligns with the school’s core values. This structure aims to support the well-being of students aged 13-18 through constant, structured engagement.
How does military experience shape boarding school environments?
Military experience is listed as “highly desirable” by Admiral Farragut Academy for its residential life positions. This preference reflects a broader trend in private preparatory schools to implement disciplined, structured environments that emphasize accountability and leadership.
Staff with military backgrounds typically bring expertise in logistics, chain-of-command communication, and crisis management. In a residential setting, this translates to more efficient dorm management and a clearer set of expectations for students. AFA integrates these military requirements alongside moral and ethical guidance to create a holistic developmental framework.
What benefits are schools offering to attract residential mentors?
To combat staffing shortages in residential education, schools are increasingly bundling living expenses into compensation packages. Admiral Farragut Academy provides free on-campus housing and meals for its TAC Mentors, effectively removing two of the largest cost-of-living burdens for employees.
Beyond basic needs, the academy offers a competitive benefits suite including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. A key retention tool mentioned in the job description is a strong 403b retirement plan with a company match, which is a critical draw for professionals seeking long-term financial stability in the education sector.
What are the essential certifications for modern dorm supervisors?
Safety and compliance standards for residential staff have tightened. According to AFA’s requirements, mentors must pass a Department of Justice fingerprint clearance and a drug screen before employment.
Medical readiness is also mandatory. Staff must hold a valid CPR/First Aid certification or obtain one within 30 days of hire. These requirements ensure that live-in staff can act as first responders in a waterfront campus environment. Additionally, a clean driving record and a valid Florida driver’s license are required to facilitate student transport and activities.
Comparison of Residential Requirements
| Requirement | Standard Dorm Role | AFA TAC Mentor |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | General supervision | 2+ years (Residential/Camp) |
| Housing | Variable/Stipend | Included (Live-on-campus) |
| Focus | Safety/Curfew | Military, Moral, & Ethical |
FAQ: Residential Mentorship at Admiral Farragut Academy
What is the time commitment for a TAC Mentor?
It is a full-time, 10-month position. Staff have June and July off, but the role requires working nights, weekends, and holidays.
Who is eligible to apply for this role?
Applicants need at least two years of experience working with students aged 13-18 in a residential setting. A Bachelor’s degree is preferred, and military experience is highly valued.
What are the physical requirements of the job?
Mentors must be able to move through student dorms, including using stairs, and participate in physical activities with students.
Where is the academy located?
The campus is in St. Petersburg, Florida, situated approximately five minutes from the Gulf of Mexico.
Interested in the evolving world of residential education? Leave a comment below with your thoughts on the TAC model, or subscribe to our newsletter for more insights into educational staffing trends.