What are the responsibilities and job description for the Elementary School Counselor or Social Worker position at Danville Elementary School?
Elementary Counselor/Social Worker
Overview:
The Elementary School Counselor / Social Worker supports the academic, social-emotional, and behavioral development of all students. This position provides a comprehensive, school-based counseling program that includes individual and group support, classroom instruction, crisis intervention, and collaboration with staff, families, and community partners.
This role is proactive and preventative in nature, focused on building skills in all students while providing targeted and intensive support for those with additional needs.
Qualifications:
Degree in School Counseling, Social Work, or related field (Master’s Degree preferred) Valid Iowa license/certification (or ability to obtain):
- School Counselor endorsement or
- School Social Worker authorization
Knowledge of child development, trauma-informed practices, and school-based mental health
Strong communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
1. Classroom Instruction (Tier 1 – Universal Support)
- Design and deliver regular classroom guidance lessons aligned to district goals and social-emotional learning (SEL) standards
- Topics may include:
- Emotional regulation and coping skills
- Peer relationships and conflict resolution
- Bullying prevention
- Goal setting and growth mindset
- Digital citizenship and decision-making
- Collaborate with teachers to integrate SEL into daily instruction
- Use engaging, age-appropriate instructional strategies to actively involve students
2. Individual and Small Group Counseling (Tier 2 & 3)
- Provide short-term individual counseling to students experiencing academic, behavioral, or emotional challenges
- Facilitate small group counseling sessions (e.g., friendship skills, anxiety, grief, behavior support)
- Monitor student progress and adjust interventions as needed
- Maintain appropriate documentation aligned with district and legal expectations
3. Student Support & Intervention
- Participate in MTSS/RTI teams to support student success
- Assist in identifying students needing additional behavioral or emotional support
- Develop and implement intervention plans in collaboration with staff
- Support behavior plans and restorative practices
4. Crisis Response & Mental Health Support
- Provide crisis intervention for students in situations involving trauma, grief, or immediate need
- Collaborate with administration during school crises or safety situations
- Support threat assessment and safety planning when appropriate
- Connect students and families with outside mental health services when needed
5. Collaboration & Consultation
- Work closely with teachers, paraprofessionals, and administrators to support student needs
- Communicate with families regarding student progress and available supports
- Partner with community agencies (e.g., mental health providers, social services)
- Support transitions (e.g., preschool to elementary, grade-to-grade)
6. School Climate & Culture
- Promote a positive, inclusive school environment
- Lead or support initiatives that improve student engagement and belonging
- Assist in implementing PBIS, SEL frameworks, or similar systems
- Support attendance improvement efforts
7. Compliance & Documentation
- Maintain confidential student records in accordance with FERPA and district policy
- Assist with 504 plans and provide input for IEP teams as appropriate
- Complete required reports and documentation in a timely manner
8. Performance Responsibilities
- Demonstrates professionalism and ethical conduct
- Builds positive relationships with students and staff
- Uses data to inform programming and interventions
- Aligns work with district goals and student achievement outcomes
Notes:
The above job description outlines primary responsibilities and qualifications. Specific duties may vary based on the needs of the Danville Community School District. DCSD Administration may also assign other duties as deemed necessary.
Danville Community School District is an equal opportunity employer and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.