Academic Counselor - 9th Grade

Role Summary

The Academic Counselor - 9th Grade at Valor Christian High School serves as the primary academic and counseling contact for a full grade-level caseload of approximately 300 students annually. This role provides comprehensive academic and transitional support to freshmen while helping them build a strong foundation for success throughout high school.

Responsibilities

• Possess and Model a Growing Relationship with Christ
• Pursue full devotion to Christ and live a life that reflects that authenticity
• Model the fruits of the spirit in communications, relationships and daily work
• Demonstrate teachability and a willing heart for service
• Embody others-centered, servant-leadership in all interactions
• Demonstrate Trustworthy Commitment to Valor’s Christian Community
• Accept and uphold Valor’s values and beliefs as found in the Statement of Beliefs, Christian Community Policy, and Valor Culture
• Document Accept and abide by all affirmations in Valor’s Annual Statement of Commitment
• Be relationally involved in the life/lives of our students with a heart of service and mission
• Seamlessly and deliberately integrate Biblical truth and Christian values into daily work
• Communicate in a thoughtful and professional manner
• Get to know the uniqueness of each academic department and banner items that showcase Valor’s academic product
• Collect, analyze, understand and present the overall academic data
• Communicate promptly and effectively with students and parents
• Process class requests and facilitate scheduling each semester
• Consistently monitor a caseload of students (GPA, grades, and teacher feedback) to ensure their successful progression against the school’s graduation requirements
• Facilitate and/or lead Care and Concern meetings and participate in additional student support meetings as needed with students, parents, and teachers to provide academic guidance, recommendations, and support strategies
• In concert with the Academic Services team, review eligibility for extracurricular participation
• Partner with Valor’s social-emotional services department, 9th Grade Seminar Teachers, and the Dean's Office to support students struggling with various difficulties and handle day-to-day issues that may arise
• Serve as the primary contact for 9th-grade students experiencing concussions, surgeries, or long-term illness; coordinate academic plans in partnership with appropriate support teams
• Coordinate with the college representatives who are visiting Valor as well as college fairs
• Plan and orchestrate Valor’s College Day/Fair every Fall
• Work with incoming students and families with questions and needs prior to attending Valor, coordinate with World Languages, Math, and English to facilitate placement testing
• Organize weekly announcements about academics to keep our families informed
• Wholeheartedly as an Exceptional Teammate
• Hold and embody Valor’s culture as set forth in the Valor Culture Document
• Model servant leadership, grace and love in all relationships and interactions
• Develop relationships with colleagues with goals of teamwork, relational unity and spiritual growth
• Provide team support regarding all matters, processes and initiatives
• Assist Team members to facilitate school-wide wins
• Demonstrate a Commitment to Fulfilling Valor’s Vision and Mission
• Assume collaborative responsibility for Operating Plan Goals and Fiscal stewardship
• Be a ‘culture-keeper’
• Participate in Valor Team meetings, Chapel and weekly meetings with Team/Supervisor
• Participate in professional, personal, and spiritual growth and development
• Contribute to the broader ministry of Valor by the contributing of time, talent and treasure beyond assigned role responsibilities

Relationships

• Director of Academic and College Counseling
• Academic and College Counselors
• Registrar
• Parents
• Students
• Dean of Academic Services and the Academic Support Team
• Teachers, including 9th Grade Seminar Teachers
• Deans of Students
• Social-Emotional Services Team

Results

• Excellently guided students and families through a successful transition to high school by providing proactive academic counseling and individualized support
• Effectively managed a high-volume caseload, including scheduling and course planning, while maintaining strong student and family relationships
• Executed successfully and without issue, Valor’s College Days, College Fairs, and on-campus college visits

Education, Experience, And Required Competencies

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related discipline required; Master’s degree preferred
• Previous college counseling or college admissions experience is preferred
• Administrative and customer service skills that demonstrate exceptional care for people and details
• Ability to navigate difficult conversations with students and families with grace and truth
• Solid biblical and theological foundation and understanding
• Strong critical thinking skills, ability to problem solve, quick learner and intentional relationship builder
• Expertise in Microsoft Office, Scoir, Student Information System (SIS) databases and Google Suite
• Efficient work pace, manage multiple tasks, and oversee systems and processes

Physical Demands

• Lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and could occasionally be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
• Near and far vision, color vision, peripheral/depth perception and the ability to adjust focus

Work Environment

• Varying noise levels
• Varying work environments including classroom, office, and outdoor events

Position Type

Full-time, Exempt

Hours Per Week

Full-time

Supervisor

Director of Academic and College Counseling

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
• 403(B) Retirement Plan with immediate vesting and employer contribution matching
• Professional development opportunities
• Three on-campus dining options for free daily lunch

Pay Range

$58,000 - $62,000/year

Start Date

July 27, 2026