School Counselor - Lower School

Apply

Description

FCS is an evangelical, non-denominational, Christian school, dedicated to a strong academic program with Christian character and Biblical truth integrated in every area, in order that students develop a lifelong Biblical worldview.

Under the direction of the Head of School, the Lower School Counselor is a key part of fulfilling the school’s mission supporting the spiritual, academic, social, and emotional development of students in grades PreK3–5th. The Lower School Counselor also partners

closely with administration to support student discipline through a lens of discipleship, helping students grow in Christ-like character while also establishing and reinforcing clear expectations, boundaries, and structure. This role requires the ability to develop and implement practical plans that guide student behavior and promote a healthy learning environment. The Lower School Counselor reports to the Principal.

Requirements

The School Counselor – Lower School should have the following qualifications:

• Committed Christian with a close personal walk with the Lord, maintained through personal routines (such as prayer and reading the Bible) and in the school setting (through regular participation in “Prayer and Share” devotional times and other spiritual development opportunities at the school) (1Thessalonians 5:11)
• Possesses Christian character qualities to serve as a role model for young people and readiness to share faith in Christ with students as part of our school’s mission (1 Timothy 4:12)
• Regular in attendance at a Christian, Bible-believing church, whose fundamental beliefs are not contrary to the FCS Statement of Faith (Hebrews 10:25)
• Commitment to a Biblical lifestyle, not promoting or engaging in actions, beliefs, or lifestyles contrary to biblical standards, such as premarital, extramarital, transgender, or homosexual behavior (Romans 12:1-2, I Corinthians 6:9-20, Ephesians 4:1-11, 5:3-5, I Thessalonians 4:3-8, I Timothy 4:12, II Timothy 2:19-22, I Peter 1:15-16, 2:15-17, I John 3:1-3)
• If married, demonstrates a solid commitment based on the principle of Mark 10:9 and a positive marital relationship
• Strong commitment to Christian education affirming that he/she is passionate about the intellectual and moral formation of students and Christian education as a profession, believes their ministerial role as an employee is a good use of time and talent to honor the Lord Jesus Christ, and understands that working at FCS is a Christian ministry position
• Knowledge and ability to convey Christian beliefs, teachings, faith, and values that are in alignment with the FCS Statement of Faith to students, with the goal of assisting students in the formation and maturity of their own Christian faith
• Master’s degree in school counseling or related field
• Preferred minimum five years counseling experience in an elementary school setting
• Committed to keeping ACSI or state certification current according to FCS guidelines
• Understanding of the special needs of adolescents
• Ability to communicate sensitively with students, staff, and parents; commitment to confidentiality
• Demonstrated ability to establish and reinforce healthy boundaries and behavioral expectations for students in a consistent and developmentally appropriate manner
• Experience developing and implementing behavior support plans for students
• Background in working with students with educational, social, and emotional needs
• Ability to collaborate effectively with the Resource Team to create and implement student support plans as needed
• Ability to balance compassion and empathy with structure, accountability, and follow-through
• Teachable, servant spirit