Middle School Counselor

Location: Smackover

Middle School Counselor

Job Description

Title:

High School Counselor

Qualifications:

As determined by the Arkansas Department of Education

Reports to:

Principal
Supervises:
Teachers, paraprofessionals, volunteers, and students

Start Date:

July 1, 2026

Job Summary
The Middle School Counselor is responsible for providing academic and personal/social counseling to middle school students. The counselor works collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, and administrators to support student success and foster a safe, respectful, and inclusive school environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Academic Guidance:
Assist students with course selection and scheduling to meet graduation requirements.
Monitor student academic progress and develop interventions for those vide support for academic planning in creating Student Success Plans with all 8th grade students.

Personal and Social Development:
Provide individual and group counseling to address personal, emotional, and behavioral issues.
Respond to student crises and work with outside agencies as needed.
Promote a positive school climate and student well-being.

Collaboration and Communication:

Consult with teachers, administrators, and parents regarding student concerns.
Maintain accurate records and confidentiality in accordance with FERPA and district policy.
Serve on school committees such as RTI, 504, and IEP teams when appropriate.

Administrative Duties:
Assist with the development of the master schedule as needed.
Maintain documentation related to counseling services and student progress.
Uphold all federal, state, and district policies and procedures.
Knowledge of developmental, emotional, and social needs of adolescents.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively with diverse populations.

Direct Student Services
Individual Counseling:
Providing short-term, solution-focused counseling for students struggling with personal issues, grief, or behavioral challenges.
Small Group Facilitation:
Leading groups on specific topics like social skills, anger management, divorce, or study habits.
Classroom Lessons:
Delivering the school counseling curriculum (e.g., bullying prevention, high school readiness, and career exploration).
Crisis Intervention:
Responding to immediate safety concerns, including risk assessments and coordination with emergency services.
2. Indirect Student Services
Consultation &

Collaboration:

Working with teachers and parents to develop strategies for student success.
Referrals:
Connecting families with outside mental health professionals or community resources (food banks, housing assistance).
504/IEP Participation:
Serving as a key member of the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS) team to advocate for students with disabilities or unique learning needs.
3. Academic & Career Planning
Transition Support:
Helping 5th graders move into middle school and preparing 8th graders for the "big leap" to high school.
Scheduling:
Assisting in the master schedule process and ensuring students are placed in appropriate courses.
Career Literacy:
Introducing students to various career paths and helping them align their interests with future educational goals.