GUIDANCE COUNSELOR HIGH SCHOOL (Anticipated 8/26/2024) 

The purpose of this position is to have an individual who can provide guidance counseling services for students, in the Waltham Over-Aged Under-Credited High School.. They meet with students to assist them with course selections, planning for the future, academic and disciplinary needs with the aim of helping each student develop his or her potential to the fullest.

Waltham OAUC School Vision

WPS proudly offers a competency-based flexible school that emphasizes a robust primary person model that allows our students to continue or restart on a pathway to high school graduation and post secondary success. We will build on student assets, embrace lived experiences, and foster caring, trusting, and supportive relationships. Our students earn high school credits, prepare to pass the MCAS, and graduate with a Waltham OAUC High School Diploma. Students may continue to participate in all extracurricular activities offered at Waltham High School, while also having the opportunity for a new beginning.

Theory of Action

If the school develops a robust, personalized competency-based model focused on high expectations with rigorous and relevant courses in a flexible schedule, then the school will be able to foster a community focused on the growth of students who have not been able to successfully access a traditional school model. 

This will be accomplished by developing meaningful and student-centered relationships, a positive climate and culture, and strong stakeholder engagement, all revolving around the student experience and successful outcomes. By implementing this program with a high level of fidelity, the school will successfully re-engage students (both current students and recent dropouts) who have experienced limited success in a traditional school setting. Students will maintain their participation in school for the entire school year or until earning the required credits to graduate.

Qualifications: ..

Education, Training and Experience:

1. Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university in Guidance Counseling.
2. Licensure from the Massachusetts Department of Education as a Guidance Counselor.
3. Demonstrated subject matter competence, highly qualified, in the area of licensure.

Knowledge Required:

1. Currency in counseling techniques.
2. Effective organization of caseload assignments..
3. Effective diagnostic skills..
4. Effective instruction in a standards-based classroom.
5. Promotion of equity and appreciation of diversity.
6. Effective use of technology.
7. Fulfillment of professional responsibilities.

Abilities Required:

1. Ability to deliver effective counseling to individuals and small groups.
2. Ability to differentiate counseling to meet student needs.
3. Ability to administer required student assessments.
4. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively with students, parents, colleagues and administrators.

Skills Required:

1. Effective caseload management skills.
2. Excellent listening, speaking, reading and writing skills.
3. Effective interpersonal skills.

Supervision:

Supervision Scope:

Supervises students and evaluates their progress.

Supervision Given and Received:

Supervised by principal and/or director.

Description of Duties:

(The essential functions or duties listed below are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be

performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar,

related or a logical assignment to the position.)

1. Management of the Learning Environment

1. Utilizes effective and varied counseling techniques and procedures.
2. Maintains a pleasant, neat and well-organized office.
3. Performs scheduled duties promptly.
4. Fulfills paperwork responsibilities promptly.
5. Maintains professional competence through in-service educational activities.
6. Demonstrates a thorough knowledge of the content area.

1. Teacher/Pupil/Parent Interaction

1. Assumes responsibility for providing a safe, supportive counseling environment for every student.
2. Relates well to students of varied proficiency.
3. Provides and promotes opportunities for students to develop a wholesome self-concept.
4. Guides students toward self-control.
5. Provides effective student structure in the total school setting.
6. Accepts responsibility for the well-being of each assigned student.
7. Remains approachable to students and parents, as needed.
8. Contributes to a positive and effective working relationship between school and home.

1. Professional and Personal Qualities

1. Adheres to the academic, ethical and social standards of the profession.
2. Speaks and writes clearly, understandably and appropriately.
3. Dresses appropriately and is well-groomed.
4. Accepts constructive criticism.
5. Applies suggestions for improvement.
6. Uses confidential information for professional purposes only.
7. Is equitable and sensitive and responsive to all learners.
8. Realizes that good attendance is necessary for effective learning.
9. Participates in ongoing professional development, including all district sponsored initiatives.

1. Teacher/Staff Relations

1. Shows evidence of helping to promote positive working relationships will school personnel.
2. Demonstrates willingness to share and exchange ideas, skills, techniques and materials.
3. Works effectively with administrative personnel.
4. Accepts and implements school and district decisions.
5. Fulfills assigned duties and out-of-class responsibilities.
6. Complies with school department procedures and school committee policies.

Salary: As per the WEA contract.

Posted: until filled