What are the responsibilities and job description for the School Counselor (26-27 school year) position at College Achieve Public Schools (CAPS)?
School Counselor
Location: College Achieve Paterson Charter School / Paterson, NJ
Organization: College Achieve Public Schools
About College Achieve Public Schools
College Achieve Public Schools is a high-performing charter school network focused on preparing every scholar for college and a fulfilling life. We are committed to academic rigor, character development, and social-emotional learning in a supportive and inclusive environment. Our educators and staff work collaboratively to ensure that every student is seen, heard, and supported.
Position Overview
We are seeking a compassionate, organized, and student-centered School Counselor to join our team at Colt High School. The School Counselor plays a pivotal role in supporting student well-being, academic success, and personal development. The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal skills, a deep understanding of adolescent development, and a commitment to equity, mental health, and college/career readiness.
Key Responsibilities
School Counselors are evaluated annually based on student support effectiveness, data-informed outcomes, collaboration with staff and families, and adherence to counseling best practices and ethics.
Skills & Attributes
Location: College Achieve Paterson Charter School / Paterson, NJ
Organization: College Achieve Public Schools
About College Achieve Public Schools
College Achieve Public Schools is a high-performing charter school network focused on preparing every scholar for college and a fulfilling life. We are committed to academic rigor, character development, and social-emotional learning in a supportive and inclusive environment. Our educators and staff work collaboratively to ensure that every student is seen, heard, and supported.
Position Overview
We are seeking a compassionate, organized, and student-centered School Counselor to join our team at Colt High School. The School Counselor plays a pivotal role in supporting student well-being, academic success, and personal development. The ideal candidate will have strong interpersonal skills, a deep understanding of adolescent development, and a commitment to equity, mental health, and college/career readiness.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide individual and small group counseling to address academic, social, emotional, and behavioral needs
- Assist students in goal-setting, problem-solving, and decision-making
- Facilitate classroom guidance lessons on topics such as conflict resolution, self-awareness, and college/career planning
- Serve as a resource and liaison among students, families, teachers, and administration
- Monitor academic performance and collaborate with teachers to develop intervention strategies
- Identify students in crisis and provide appropriate referrals and follow-up
- Coordinate with outside agencies, mental health professionals, and community resources when needed
- Assist with the transition planning for new and graduating students
- Maintain accurate, confidential records and reports in compliance with ethical and legal standards
- Participate in professional development opportunities and contribute to a positive school climate
- Masters degree in school counseling, counseling, or related field
- Valid NJ School Counselor Certification (Standard or CE)
- Demonstrated experience working with diverse student populations
- Understanding of child and adolescent development, mental health, and trauma-informed practices
- Strong communication, collaboration, and organizational skills
- Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced school environment
- Must pass a criminal history background check
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience, Starting salary 65K
- Signing and retention bonuses
- Comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- NJ State Pension Plan
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
- Access to ongoing professional development
- Staff referral program
School Counselors are evaluated annually based on student support effectiveness, data-informed outcomes, collaboration with staff and families, and adherence to counseling best practices and ethics.
Skills & Attributes
- Strong commitment to student advocacy and equity
- Empathetic listener and effective communicator
- Highly organized and solution-focused
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Passionate about mental health and student development