Elementary School Guidance Counselor

Elementary School Guidance Counselor

FLSA Status: Exempt
Contract Length: 10-Month 
Salary: Commensurate with Education and Experience per Salary Scale

General Description of Position

The Elementary School Guidance Counselor provides a comprehensive, developmental counseling program for students in grades PreK–5, addressing academic, career, and social-emotional growth. The counselor collaborates with teachers, administrators, families, and community agencies to support student success and promote a positive and safe learning environment consistent with the mission of Bland County Public Schools.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Implements a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with Virginia Department of Education standards and division goals
• Provides classroom guidance instruction focusing on character education, social-emotional learning, and academic success skills
• Conducts individual and small group counseling to address student needs
• Assists students in developing appropriate academic and personal goals
• Collaborates with teachers and staff to support instructional practices and student achievement
• Participates in Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), Child Study, IEP, and Section 504 meetings as appropriate
• Identifies at-risk students and coordinates appropriate interventions and referrals
• Consults and communicates effectively with parents/guardians regarding student progress and concerns
• Assists with crisis intervention, threat assessment, and student support services
• Coordinates with community agencies and outside service providers as needed
• Maintains accurate, complete, and confidential student records in compliance with FERPA and School Board policies
• Assists with student transition activities (e.g., PreK to Kindergarten, Elementary to Middle School)
• Promotes positive school climate and student well-being
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Principal or designee

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of current counseling practices, child development, and intervention strategies
• Understanding of MTSS, behavioral supports, and trauma-informed practices
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and collaboration skills
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, staff, parents, and community partners
• Ability to analyze student data to inform counseling services
• Demonstrated professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical conduct

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s Degree in School Counseling
• Experience working with elementary-aged students preferred
• Master’s Degree in School Counseling or a closely related field from an accredited college or university
• Must hold or be eligible for a valid Virginia Collegiate Professional License with endorsement in School Counseling (PreK–12) issued by the Virginia Department of Education

Licensure

• Must hold or be eligible for a Virginia Collegiate Professional License issued by the Virginia Department of Education
• Must have an endorsement in School Counseling (PreK–12)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform light work, including standing, walking, and sitting for extended periods
• Ability to effectively communicate with students, staff, and the public
• Occasional lifting of materials up to 25 pounds

Bland County Public Schools reserves the right to close this posting prior to the stated deadline once a sufficient pool of applicants has been received.

Salary : $49,353 - $76,983