What are the responsibilities and job description for the High School Guidance Counselor position at Dallas Center - Grimes Schools?
The Dallas Center-Grimes School District is looking for dedicated professional to be a High School Guidance Counselor at DCG High School. Grades 9-12
SUMMARY:
The High School Guidance Counselor supports the academic, social-emotional, and career development needs of students in grades 9–12. The counselor collaborates with staff, families, and community partners to promote student well-being, success, and readiness for postsecondary opportunities. This role requires strong communication skills, the ability to interpret student data, and a commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environment.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Provide academic counseling, including course planning, scheduling, credit checks, graduation tracking, and postsecondary planning.
Deliver short-term social-emotional support and crisis intervention, referring students to outside services as appropriate.
Assist students with college and career readiness, including applications, financial aid guidance, military pathways, and workforce preparation.
Maintain accurate student records, documentation, and data in accordance with district, state, and federal guidelines.
Interpret assessment data (including standardized tests) to help guide instructional and counseling decisions.
Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and families to support student well-being and remove barriers to learning.
Facilitate school-wide programs supporting academic success, mental health, attendance, and positive behavior.
Participate in student support teams, IEP or 504 meetings, re-engagement meetings, and other multidisciplinary planning groups.
Provide counseling services in alignment with ethical standards and confidentiality requirements.
Support students during transitions between grade levels and into postsecondary pathways.
Assist with crisis response protocols, safety planning, mandated reporting, and emergency procedures.
Participate in professional development, district trainings, and ongoing learning related to counseling practices.
Promote and follow Board of Education policies, district procedures, and professional codes of conduct.
EDUCATION & RELATED WORK EXPERIENCE:
Master’s degree in School Counseling, Counseling, or a related field required.
Experience working with high-school students is preferred.
Experience with academic advising, career planning, or mental health support preferred.
LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS, OR CERTIFICATIONS:
Criminal background check required.
Valid State of Iowa School Counselor license required.
Additional training in crisis intervention, trauma-informed care, or mental health support preferred.
Job Description:
High School Counselor
Teacher