School Counselor Job Description

Job Summary

[Your Company Name] is seeking a dedicated and compassionate School Counselor to join our team. The School Counselor will provide comprehensive counseling services to students, addressing their academic, career, social, and emotional development. The ideal candidate will have excellent communication skills, a deep understanding of student needs, and the ability to work collaboratively with parents, teachers, and administrators.

Key Responsibilities

A. Academic Counseling

Provide Academic Support: Assist students in developing academic plans, setting goals, and overcoming obstacles to academic success.
Monitor Academic Progress: Track student performance and intervene when necessary to provide support and resources.
Coordinate with Teachers: Collaborate with teachers to identify students who may need additional academic support and develop strategies to help them succeed.

B. Career Counseling

Career Guidance: Help students explore career options, understand the job market, and make informed decisions about their future.
College Preparation: Assist students with college applications, scholarship opportunities, and preparing for standardized tests.
Internships and Work Experience: Coordinate opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships and part-time jobs.

C. Social and Emotional Counseling

Provide Emotional Support: Offer individual and group counseling sessions to address students’ emotional and social challenges.
Conflict Resolution: Mediate conflicts between students and help them develop effective conflict resolution skills.
Crisis Intervention: Provide immediate support and intervention in crisis situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of students.

D. Preventive Programs

Develop Programs: Create and implement preventive programs that address common issues such as bullying, substance abuse, and mental health.
Workshops and Seminars: Organize workshops and seminars for students, parents, and staff on topics related to mental health, well-being, and personal development.
Awareness Campaigns: Lead campaigns to raise awareness about important issues and promote a positive school environment.

E. Parental Involvement

Parent Communication: Maintain open lines of communication with parents regarding their child's progress, challenges, and needs.
Family Counseling: Provide counseling to families to address issues affecting students’ well-being and academic performance.
Parent Workshops: Organize workshops for parents to educate them on how to support their child’s development and well-being.

F. Collaboration and Consultation

Work with School Staff: Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and other school staff to support student success and well-being.
Referral Services: Refer students and families to external resources and services when necessary, such as mental health professionals and community organizations.
Case Management: Manage and document cases of students receiving counseling services, ensuring confidentiality and compliance with school policies.

Qualifications

A. Education and Experience

Master’s Degree in School Counseling or Related Field: Required.
State Certification as a School Counselor: Required.
Experience Working with Children and Adolescents: At least 3 years of experience in a counseling role within an educational setting.

B. Skills and Abilities

Strong Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with students, parents, and staff.
Empathy and Patience: Demonstrated ability to work compassionately with students, understanding their needs and concerns.
Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple responsibilities and maintain detailed records.
Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to address issues calmly and effectively, finding solutions to challenges as they arise.
Confidentiality: Commitment to maintaining student confidentiality and handling sensitive information appropriately.

C. Certifications and Clearances

First Aid and CPR Certification: Preferred.
Background Check: Must pass a comprehensive background check.
Health Clearance: Must meet all health requirements, including vaccinations and physical examinations.

Working Conditions

Physical Demands: The job requires regular interaction with students and staff, including standing, walking, and participating in school activities.
Work Environment: The counselor will work in various settings within the school, including offices, classrooms, and common areas. The environment is typically active and may require dealing with stressful situations.

Benefits

A. Health and Wellness

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive coverage options for employees and their families.
Wellness Programs: Access to wellness programs and resources to support physical and mental health.

B. Financial Benefits

Competitive Salary: A competitive salary commensurate with experience and qualifications.
Retirement Plan: Access to a retirement savings plan with employer matching contributions.
Life Insurance: Basic life insurance coverage provided by the employer.

C. Professional Development

Training Opportunities: Ongoing professional development and training opportunities to enhance skills and advance career.
Tuition Reimbursement: Financial support for continuing education and certification programs.

D. Work-Life Balance

Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
Flexible Scheduling: Options for flexible scheduling to accommodate personal and family needs.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following documents to [Your Company Name]:

Resume: Detailed resume highlighting relevant experience and qualifications.
Cover Letter: Cover letter explaining your interest in the position and how your skills and experience align with the role.
References: Contact information for three professional references.