Lower School Counselor and Dean of Students

Description

School Profile

Battle Ground Academy is a coeducational, college preparatory day school serving students in grades PK-12 in historic Franklin, Tennessee. Founded in 1889, BGA is the oldest PK-12 independent school in Williamson County.  The school’s mission to ignite and nurture student curiosity, intellect, and character drives dynamic programs in an inclusive and welcoming learning community. Learn more about our mission and core values. 

Position Summary

Battle Ground Academy is seeking a thoughtful and student-centered Counselor and Dean of Students (2026-2027) who will support the social, emotional, and citizenship development of children in our Lower School (grades K-4). This role works closely with students, teachers, administrators, and families to foster a strong sense of belonging, responsibility, and respect within the school community, ensuring a learning environment where every child is known, supported, and encouraged to thrive.

The successful candidate will bring a strong understanding of child development and best practices in elementary counseling, social-emotional learning, and student well-being. This individual will help guide programs that nurture character, empathy, and positive citizenship, while partnering with faculty to support students with consistency, care, and clear expectations.

Successful candidates will integrate intellectual curiosity with professional expertise; possess enthusiasm for working with children and a growth mindset; and actively support the school’s mission. Excellent communication skills, sound judgment, and the ability to collaborate with students, families, and colleagues are essential. The ideal candidate approaches student support with warmth and clarity, reflects on professional practice, and contributes positively to a joyful learning community.

Responsibilities

• Provide individual and small-group counseling that supports students’ social, emotional, and citizenship development in alignment with the school’s mission and professional standards.
• Promote a positive culture of belonging, respect, responsibility, and citizenship throughout the Lower School.
• Serve as a member of the Lower School Leadership Team and collaborate closely with the Counseling Team to support student well-being and a healthy school climate.
• Partner with faculty as a trusted resource, offering consultation and guidance related to child development, peer relationships, social dynamics, and effective student support strategies.
• Work with teachers and administrators to uphold consistent expectations for student conduct and community norms.
• Guide students through reflection, problem-solving, and restorative conversations that foster accountability, empathy, and growth.
• Design and facilitate developmentally appropriate programming that supports social-emotional learning, character development, and positive participation in the school community.
• Maintain appropriate and confidential student records in accordance with ethical standards, legal requirements, and school policies.
• Collaborate with the Lower School Director to provide parent education and support related to child development, student well-being, and healthy school partnerships.
• Serve as liaison to outside professionals and community resources, supporting families and coordinating communication when students receive external services.
• Monitor patterns related to student well-being and school climate, and partner with school leadership to proactively strengthen the student experience.
• Welcome and support new students and families, including coordinating orientation and helping students transition successfully into the community.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in School Counseling, Clinical/Counseling Psychology, School Psychology, or Clinical Social Work
• Master’s Degree in a relevant field preferred
• Experience working with primary age children, teachers, and families in a school or similar setting
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a high degree of warmth, empathy, and professionalism
• Excellent organizational, documentation, and computer skills
• Demonstrated cultural humility and ability to work collaboratively with students, families, faculty, and staff of varied backgrounds
• Ability to navigate complex, sensitive situations with discretion and sound judgment
• The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities.