What are the responsibilities and job description for the High School Guidance Counselor position at Catholic Diocese of Memphis?
Position Summary
St. Benedict at Auburndale Catholic High School seeks a compassionate, organized, and mission-driven Guidance Counselor to serve our high school students. This individual provides academic advising, college preparation support, and personal counseling while upholding the mission and values of a Catholic educational environment rooted in the Benedictine tradition.
Key Responsibilities
Academic Support & Advising
- Maintain accurate records of student credits and verify that all students are on track for graduation requirements.
- Assist with the course registration process in collaboration with the Assistant Principals and Academic Dean, including student advisement and schedule review.
- Provide classroom guidance for freshmen and sophomore students on 4-year academic planning, GPA calculation, Naviance training, college information, and standardized testing results.
- Work with the Learning Center and Learning Lab to ensure psychoeducational testing results are effectively implemented; meet regularly with Learning Specialist–Support Lab Teachers.
- Maintain and update a resource list of qualified outside tutors for students who require additional academic support.
College Preparation & Testing
- Supervise and guide students through the college application process from start to finish.
- Interface with testing agencies to order and administer standardized tests; coordinate the dissemination and analysis of results with students and parents.
Student & Family Counseling
- Serve on the Student Success Team (SST) and actively contribute to student intervention and support planning.
- Provide individual personal counseling for students navigating academic, social, or personal challenges.
- Create opportunities for students and parents to discuss concerns that may affect the educational process.
- Provide a forum for faculty and staff to collaboratively address student-related issues.
- Attend parent-required meetings and maintain open, professional communication with families.
Administrative
- Maintain working knowledge of all policies and procedures outlined in the student handbook.
- Prepare and manage the annual budget for the Guidance Office.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Principal.
Qualifications
Required
- Master's degree in School Counseling or a closely related field.
- Valid school counseling certification required.
- Demonstrated ability to maintain strict student and family confidentiality.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills with students, staff, parents, and external partners.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines simultaneously.
- Commitment to the mission and values of Catholic education.
Skills & Abilities
- Represents the school and Diocese of Memphis in a positive and professional manner at all times.
- Ability to collaborate effectively with teachers, administrators, and families.
- Current, valid driver's license (limited travel may be required).
- Ability to sit for extended periods and lift at least 20 pounds.
Catholic Mission Preference: St. Benedict at Auburndale is a Catholic school rooted in the Benedictine tradition. Candidates who demonstrate a personal commitment to the Catholic faith and its educational mission are strongly preferred. All employees are expected to support and model the school's mission and values.
Work Environment & Schedule
- Office-based setting with regular interaction with students, faculty, parents, and external partners.
- Standard work week of approximately 40 hours; flexibility required to fulfill job responsibilities as needed.
- 190-day contract; additional days may be available with stipend.
- Physical requirements include sitting for extended periods and occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds.
Compensation
Salary is commensurate with experience and education level A performance stipend is provided in recognition of the combined role's extracurricular responsibilities. Comprehensive benefit package and school tuition discount if applicable.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit the following materials to the Principal's Office:
- Cover letter expressing your interest in the position and alignment with the school's Catholic mission.
- Current résumé or curriculum vitae.
- Copies of applicable certifications and transcripts.
- Three professional references (at least one from a school administrator