2026-27 Counselor, Lead

PRIMARY PURPOSE:

To supervise, manage and lead a comprehensive program of guidance and counseling utilizing planning, implementation and evaluation that includes counseling services to assigned school; uses a planning process to define needs and priorities of population served; provides a proactive, developmental guidance program for all students to maximize personal growth and development; coordinates post-secondary education, college admissions, financial aid and scholarships; to promote a positive working relationship, among and between staff, by establishing a climate conducive to open communication and productive work.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education/Certification:

Master's Degree, required

Texas Counselor’s Certificate, required

Texas Teaching Certificate, required

Special Knowledge/Skills:

Knowledge of counseling procedures; communicates effectively (verbal and written); utilize effective interpersonal skills; possess effective organizational and presentation skills; work collaboratively with other building department leaders and district guidance staff members; interpret data, federal and state laws and policies

Experience:

Three (3) years of experience as a classroom teacher; high school experience and counseling experience, required

Days:

207

Note:  Starting pay for a new hire in a pay range plan will be determined individually based on each person's job-related experience and salaries paid to peer employees in the same position with similar experience.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES/ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Plan and implement the school’s developmental guidance and counseling program consistent with the district and campus goals and objectives.

2. Provide guidance and counseling to individuals and groups of students related to their personal needs.

3. Provide crisis counseling and/or consultation services.

4. Teach the school developmental guidance curriculum in conjunction with teachers or through individual and/or classroom group activities.

5. Provide academic and career counseling through course advisement and selection.

6. Monitor and evaluate student progress to assess placement; coordinate with school staff in the selection and/or development of appropriate college admissions, financial aid, scholarship and career guidance materials to provide career/occupational and post-secondary opportunities.

7. Coordinate and participate in special events/projects/programs designed to enhance student success.

8. Consult with parents, administrators, school personnel or students about educational, personal and social needs of students through conferences, phone calls and home visits.

9. Use an effective referral process to work cooperatively with school, community and resource persons to assist students.

10. Assist administrators, teachers, students and parents in the resolution of conflicts.

11. Advocate for the guidance and counseling program and staff members with the school, district and community.

12. Accomplish tasks to help staff members organize for program delivery and define staff member roles.

13. Collaborate with other school and district staff to interpret testing programs for students.

14. Plan for and provide professional development for staff when appropriate.

15. Promote equal access to all career/technical programs and activities based on student career interest and aptitude assessment and ability to succeed in such programs for all students, including students who are members of special populations.

16. Work cooperatively with students, parents and school staff to achieve a positive school climate and community relations.

17. Foster collaborative educational efforts among staff by supporting the district’s philosophy and mission and its commitment to site-based shared decision-making.

18. Keep the principal informed regarding the status of all projects or initiatives undertaken and of directives or requests received internally or externally.

19. Obtain, manage and distribute all college, scholarship and information in a timely manner.

20. Compile and maintain all reports, records and other required documents in a timely and efficient manner.

21. Prepare the department budget request and recommend the purchase of supplies materials and equipment for the counseling and guidance program.

22. Pursue professional growth by participating in appropriate in-service opportunities and keeping abreast of changes and developments in education as reflected in research, literature and best practices.

23. Use accepted theories and techniques appropriate to school counseling.

24. Adhere to ethical and legal standards.

25. Follow McAllen ISD customer service standards.

26. Perform other duties assigned by immediate supervisor (primary evaluator).

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None

EQUIPMENT USED:

Computer, copier, multimedia equipment

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Mental Demands:

Maintain emotional control under stress; coordinate multiple projects; meet deadlines

Physical Demands/Environmental Factors:

Frequent prolonged and irregular hours; frequent district-wide and occasional state or national travel

Assists in restraining students in a crisis situation

Salary : $333 - $464