Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Specialist

Position Overview

Woodstock Union High School is seeking a Social Emotional Learning (SEL) Specialist who is committed to building strong relationships with students and ensuring that every student is supported, regulated, and ready to learn.

Working directly under the supervision of the Assistant Principal, this role is central to the daily functioning of the school. The SEL Specialist is a visible, responsive, and solutions-oriented presence who provides real-time support to students and staff, helps maintain consistency across the building, and ensures that student support systems operate effectively.

This position blends hands-on student support, school operations, family communication, and compliance responsibilities, including Harassment, Hazing, and Bullying (HHB) investigations.

Core Responsibilities

Student Support & Intervention

• Provide immediate, in-the-moment support to students experiencing social, emotional, or behavioral challenges
• Facilitate de-escalation, conflict resolution, and restorative conversations
• Support student re-entry following ISS, ASP, or suspension with clear plans and follow-through
• Build strong relationships with students requiring Tier II and Tier III supports

Daily School Operations (In Partnership with the AP)

• Respond to student needs referred by teachers, staff, or administration
• Support supervision during arrival, lunch/ARE, transitions, and dismissal
• Help maintain consistent behavioral expectations across classrooms and common spaces
• Partner with the Assistant Principal to ensure discipline systems are implemented with fidelity

HHB Investigations & Compliance

• Conduct and support Harassment, Hazing, and Bullying (HHB) investigations under the direction of the Assistant Principal
• Gather statements, document findings, and maintain accurate, timely records
• Ensure all investigations align with district policy and Vermont state requirements
• Maintain strict confidentiality and professionalism
• Support follow-up actions, including restorative practices and student safety planning

Family Communication & Collaboration

• Communicate with parents/guardians regarding student concerns, supports, and follow-up actions, as directed by the AP
• Participate in family meetings to support student success and re-entry planning
• Serve as a consistent and professional point of contact for student-related concerns
• Collaborate with counselors, case managers, teachers, and administration to align supports

Data, Documentation & MTSS

• Maintain clear documentation of student interactions, interventions, and outcomes
• Track behavior patterns and escalation triggers to inform next steps
• Contribute to MTSS and student support team meetings with relevant data and insight

SEL Skill Development

• Support implementation of school-wide SEL practices and routines
• Facilitate small groups or targeted skill-building sessions as needed
• Reinforce student development in self-regulation, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making

What Success Looks Like

• Students are supported quickly and effectively, minimizing disruption to learning
• Teachers feel supported and are not managing behavioral challenges in isolation
• HHB concerns are addressed promptly, thoroughly, and in compliance with policy
• Families receive clear, timely, and professional communication
• School systems are consistent, predictable, and aligned
• The school runs smoothly day-to-day, with fewer escalations and stronger student relationships

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in education, counseling, social work, or related field preferred
• Vermont Educators' License with proper endorsement
• Experience working with adolescents in a school or youth-centered setting
• Demonstrated ability to manage sensitive situations, including investigations and family communication
• Strong communication, de-escalation, and problem-solving skills
• Experience with restorative practices, trauma-informed approaches, or SEL frameworks preferred

Preferred Skills & Attributes

• Calm, steady, and solutions-oriented under pressure
• Strong judgment and ability to act in real time
• High emotional intelligence and relationship-building skills
• Organized with strong documentation habits
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and student-centered practices
• Team-oriented, flexible, and proactive

Work Year & Schedule

• School-year position
• Schedule aligned with student day and supervision needs

Additional Information

This position is distinct from a school counselor role. The SEL Specialist is a highly visible, hands-on practitioner focused on immediate support, proactive intervention, and the consistent implementation of schoolwide systems.

Salary : $49,539 - $98,459