Counselor, High School

Job Title: High School Counselor

Wage/Hour Status: Exempt

Reports to: Principal and Lead Counselor

Pay Grade: Admin/Prof 5

Dept./School: Dripping Springs High School

Work Calendar: 207 Days

Date Revised: 2.20.2025

PRIMARY PURPOSE

Plan, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive school counseling program at the high school. Counsel students to fully develop each student’s academic, career, personal, and social abilities and address the needs of special population students. Deliver guidance curriculum in various group sizes. Educate students on skills necessary to address challenging circumstances, support students in difficult situations, and connect students with resources to navigate crisis situations.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Certification:

• Master’s degree in counseling from an accredited college or university
• Valid Texas school counselor certificate

Special Knowledge/Skills:

• Knowledge of counseling procedures, student appraisal, and career development
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to instruct students and manage their behavior
• Ability to present information in one-on-one, small group, and large group settings to students, parents or guardians, and district staff

Experience:

• Two years of creditable classroom teaching experience

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES

Guidance Curriculum

1. Plan, organize, implement, and deliver structured group lessons aligned to the district’s guidance curriculum.
2. Teach guidance curriculum using effective instructional strategies and differentiated approaches for diverse student populations.
3. Collaborate with students, staff, parents, and the community to identify priorities and integrate guidance lessons into content areas.
4. Create a balanced curriculum using intentional activities, guest speakers, and engaging delivery methods, including technology.

Responsive Services

1. Use counseling techniques to respond to critical incidents and provide timely student support.
2. Implement preventive strategies to remove barriers to student success.
3. Provide remediation support to help students navigate problem situations and make improved decisions.
4. Respond to crisis situations and collaborate with staff, families, and community agencies.
5. Provide ongoing support through counseling, consultation, and referrals.
6. Serve as an impartial, non-reporting resource in student conflicts, including bullying situations.

Individual Planning

1. Develop and provide age-appropriate counseling services and resources.
2. Assist students and families in monitoring academic, career, and personal development.
3. Advocate for equitable access and opportunities for all students, including special populations.
4. Interpret assessment data, support career planning, and guide students in graduation planning and post-secondary readiness.

System Support

1. Collect and analyze data to inform interventions and support student needs.
2. Conduct annual program evaluations to guide improvement and accountability.
3. Participate in campus improvement planning and goal setting.
4. Provide training and consultation to parents and staff.
5. Communicate counseling program goals and plans to stakeholders.
6. Participate in professional development and ongoing learning.

Other Related Duties

1. Compile, maintain, and file reports, records, and documentation.
2. Comply with federal, state, and district policies and regulations.
3. Adhere to legal, ethical, and professional standards for school counselors.
4. Maintain confidentiality in accordance with FERPA.
5. Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

Supervise assigned counseling aide(s) and clerical staff.

MENTAL DEMANDS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS

Equipment Used: Personal computer and peripherals; standard instructional equipment.
Posture: Prolonged sitting; frequent standing, bending, kneeling, pushing/pulling, and twisting.
Motion: Frequent walking.
Lifting: Light lifting (less than 15 pounds); occasional physical restraint of students.
Environment: Work inside; may work outside.
Mental Demands: Maintain emotional control under stress; may work prolonged or irregular hours.

This document describes the general purpose and responsibilities assigned to this job and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities and duties that may be assigned or skills that may be required.

Salary : $69,769 - $96,348