Elementary School Counselor

School Counselor Position Vision:
The Elementary School Counselor plays a vital role in supporting the social, emotional, and academic development of students in an elementary school setting. This position involves working closely with students, parents, and staff to create a safe and nurturing learning environment. The counselor will provide individual and group counseling, and collaborate with educators and families to support student success.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Student Support:
   • Maintain a caseload of students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) who require counseling services.
   • Provide mandated counseling services in an individual and/or group counseling sessions to address students' emotional, social, and academic needs.
   • Develop and implement strategies to help students manage stress, anxiety, and behavioral issues.
   • Support students in setting and achieving academic and personal goals.
   • Ensure counseling goals are met in a timely manner as indicated on student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP)
     
     
2. Academic Guidance:
   • Assist students on caseload with setting academic goals and developing study skills.
   • Collaborate with teachers to identify students who may need additional academic support.
   • Monitor and track student progress, and provide interventions as needed.
     
     
3. Crisis Intervention:
   • Respond to immediate concerns or crises involving students, such as bullying, family issues, or trauma.
   • Develop and implement crisis intervention plans and work with external agencies if necessary.
     
     
4. Parent and Teacher Collaboration:
   • Communicate regularly with parents and guardians of students on caseload to discuss students' progress and any concerns.
   • Provide resources to parents on topics related to child development and behavior.
   • Collaborate with teachers to create behavior and/or academic support plans for students on caseload as needed.
     
     
5. Record Keeping:
   • Maintain accurate and confidential records of counseling sessions, student progress, and interventions.
   • Prepare reports and documentation as required for school administration and external agencies.
   • Update counseling progress on Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for all students on caseload in a timely manner, as required by the Center for Special Education (CSE)

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in School Counseling, School Psychology, Mental Health Counseling, Social Work, or a related field.
• State certification or licensure in field of study required.
• Proven experience working with elementary-aged children (grades K-8) in a school or counseling setting.
• Strong understanding of child development and effective counseling techniques.
• Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and adhering to ethical standards.
• Bilingual (Spanish) highly preferred.

 Starting Salary Range: $80,000 - $$90,000, commensurate with experience.