Elementary School Counselor - Samuel Bissell Elementary School

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the Principal and Director of Pupil Services, to provide students, parents, administrators, and other teaching staff with information on career and or educational opportunities; administer and interpret career assessment tools; and assist students in developing educational and occupational goals and plans.

Qualifications Profile

• Certification/License:as a School Counselor.
• Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to the assignment.
• Masters Degree preferred.
  
  

Duties and Responsibilities:

The following duties are representative of performance expectations. A reasonable accommodation may be made to enable a qualified individual with a disability to perform essential functions.

• Consults with staff to identify, implement, and evaluate guidance services.
• Upholds Board policies and follows administrative procedures.
• Promotes a favorable image of the school district.
• Assists the Principal with the development of the master schedule as directed.
• Assists with the coordination of summer school programs when offered.
• Facilitates the transition process for students entering or leaving the program. Provides student orientation and follow-up services.
• Provides information services to parents and students (e.g., testing procedures, program options, promotion/graduation requirements, etc.).
• Helps students understand why learning is important.
• Assists students with the development of appropriate study skills.
• Conducts guidance classes. Helps students better understand themselves and others. Helps students understand their personal responsibility for setting goals and achieving success.
• Collaborates with teachers on student’s career planning activities.
• Implements effective classroom management procedures. Maintains high standards and upholds the student conduct code.
• Develops and maintains a positive learning environment. Stimulates student interest. Helps parents and students understand academic and behavioral objectives.
• Communicates high expectations and shows an active interest in student progress.
• Helps students develop critical-thinking, problem-solving, and creativity skills.
• Incorporates the effective use of available technology in guidance and records management activities. Upholds computer technology acceptable use policies.
• Helps students take full advantage of the learning environment (e.g., access and proximity to activities, use of adaptive equipment, etc.).
• Coordinates testing programs. Interprets test results. Helps teachers identify interventions and program adaptations to assist students experiencing learning difficulties.
• Maintains accurate records and submits reports on time.
• Respects personal privacy. Maintains the confidentiality of privileged information.
• Conducts group counseling sessions as needed to address student concerns (e.g., grief, socialization, personal behaviors, conflict mediation, etc.).
• Provides individual counseling to help students resolve personal, social, educational, and/or career development problems.
• Serves as a resource for drug prevention awareness and intervention activities.
• Helps staff address student concerns (e.g., excessive absences, at-risk behavior, mental/physical health, family/peer relations, etc.).
• Works with community services associated with students’ programs (e.g., law enforcement, health care facilities, child welfare services, etc.).
• Consults with parents on a regular basis (e.g., telephone calls, messages, etc.).
• Consults with teachers regarding student concerns.
• Schedules home and work site visits when necessary to support program goals.
• Reports evidence of suspected child abuse as required by law.
• Participates in student assistance team meetings. Works with the team to reach a consensus on a plan for the identified student.
• Supports a full range of educational options. Helps staff resolve problems related to the participation of students with disabilities in appropriate peer group activities.
• Takes precautions to ensure student safety. Does not leave students unsupervised.
• Provides crisis intervention services. Assists in district-wide intervention plan.
• Supervises assigned non-classroom activities when assigned.
• Participates in open houses, parent conferences, and other required school events.
• Participates in staff meetings and professional growth opportunities.
• Accepts responsibility for decisions and conduct. Strives to develop rapport and serve as a positive role model for others.
• Performs other specific job-related duties as directed.
  
  

Essential Performance Responsibilities Additional Duties

Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent.

Note: The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities. It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility.

Required Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

The following characteristics and physical skills are essential for the successful performance of assigned duties.

• Demonstrates professionalism and maintains a positive work attitude.
• Acts in accordance with the professional code of ethics.
• Skillfully manages individual, group, and organizational interactions.
• Effectively uses verbal, nonverbal, writing, and listening skills.
• Completes detailed paperwork accurately.
• Organizes tasks and manages time effectively.
• Averts problem situations and intervenes to resolve conflicts.
• Lifts, carries, and/or moves guidance supplies and equipment.
• Maintains an acceptable attendance record and is punctual.
• Travels to meetings and work assignments.
  
  

Equipment

Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone.

Travel Requirements

Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards

Works in standard office and school building environments.

FLSA Status: Exempt