Middle School Counselor

School Counselor

The Middle School Counselor is responsible for providing a comprehensive school counseling program that supports students in the areas of academic achievement, career and college planning, and personal and social development.

• Master's Degree from an accredited college or university in school guidance and counseling.
• Three (3) years of successful teaching experience
• Knowledge of counseling theories and skills, group dynamics and small group processes
• Knowledge of K-12 instructional programs
• Demonstrates considerable knowledge of FERPA, IDEA, ESOL and laws concerning students rights and confidentiality

• Designs, implements and assesses the guidance curriculum.
• Consults with families and staff to appraise student needs and interests and to discuss appropriate recommendations for educational options.
• Plans, coordinates and provides the classroom guidance sessions to meet the identified guidance and counseling competencies in the areas of academic achievement, career and educational development, and personal and social development to assist students in developing decision‑making skills and identifying life goals.
• Prepares students for the transition to the next level: high school and post high school activities/options.
• Provides in‑service training on topics related to the school counseling program and supporting student achievement
• Uses all available data, including academic grades, discipline referrals and attendance data, to identify students in need and to deliver services.
• Plans and coordinates programs such as career and high school fairs, test skills preparation, improved/perfect attendance celebrations and other extensions of the counseling program to support students' knowledge of post‑secondary options.
• Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with guidance services.
• Assist teachers in developing alternative teaching strategies to meet the academic needs of all students
• Assist with scheduling of students to meet standards and identified student needs
• Assist in the development of the master schedule
• Assist students in transition between grade levels and special programs
• Work with teachers, staff and parents in placement, assessment and monitoring of ESOL students, students with disabilities, homeless students and/or students in crisis
• Refer students to intervention/remediation programs, as well as academic and alternative programs to ensure academic success
• Make referrals to school personnel and community agencies
• Participate in SST, 504 meetings and parent/teacher conferences
• Serve as a resource for school personnel and parents 12. Assist students in conflict resolution
• Serve as a direct liaison for managing crisis
• Assist in the identification of students with special needs
• Provide career exploration and career services for all students
• Prepare reports, records, lists and all other required information and data
• Work with district student services personnel to assist students and parents
• Other duties as assigned

Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

• Knowledge of current developments in business and industry regarding career opportunities and employment.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self‑evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Works in standard office and school building environments.