Middle School Counselor

Middle School Counselor: 2026‑27 School Year

USD 495 is seeking a Middle School Counselor for the 2026–27 school year to work with students at Larned Middle School.

USD 495 is a PK–12 district serving about 850 students. We are a small, close-knit district where students are known by name and supported by staff who work closely together. Our elementary school focuses on strong foundations, positive relationships, and helping every student grow academically and socially.

• Provide individual and small‑group counseling to support students’ academic, social, and emotional development.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) standards.
• Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and families to support student achievement and well‑being.
• Monitor student academic progress and assist with course planning and high school transition.
• Respond to student crises and provide appropriate referrals to school and community resources.
• Use data to identify student needs, evaluate program effectiveness, and promote equitable access to support services.

• Hold or be eligible for a valid School Specialist License (School Counselor endorsement) issued by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE).
• Master’s degree in School Counseling or completion of a KSDE‑approved school counseling preparation program.
• Completion of supervised practicum and internship experiences in a school setting.
• Demonstrated knowledge of academic, social/emotional, and career development for middle‑level students.
• Strong skills in individual and group counseling, crisis response, and collaboration with staff and families.
• Knowledge of confidentiality laws, mandated reporting requirements, and ethical standards for school counselors.
• Effective communication, organization, and data‑driven decision‑making skills.

• Small class sizes and strong student support
• Supportive leadership and a collaborative staff culture
• A community that shows up for its schools and students
• Competitive salary and benefits
• Cost of living about 12 percent below the national average

You can learn more about USD 495 and view current openings at  Questions about this position or other openings may be directed to the USD 495 District Office at  or to Larned Middle School Principal Shane Sundahl at  or

Applications will be accepted beginning Monday, February 16, 2026 12:00 AM (Central Standard Time).

USD 495 does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, disability, or age when considering applications for employment. Questions about compliance with Title VI, Title IX, the Americans with Disabilities Act, or Section 504 can be directed to the following contacts:

• Local Title IX Coordinator: , 120 East 6th Street, Larned, KS 67550
• Kansas Title IX Coordinator: (785) 296‑2424, 120 S.E. 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66612‑1182
• Assistant Secretary of Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education