Guidance Counselor

Position Purpose

Under the general supervision of the 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.

Essential Performance Responsibilities

• Assists students in evaluating students' aptitudes and abilities through the interpretation of individual standardized test scores and other pertinent data, and works with students in developing education and occupation plans consistent with such evaluation.
• Assists students in making course and subject selections, as well as with evaluating career interests and choices.
• Assists in the scheduling of classes.
• Obtains and disseminates information regarding occupational opportunities to students and to classes studying occupations.
• Aids students with admissions, scholarship, and identifying employment opportunities.
• Collaborates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student's abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with guidance services.
• Researches educational and career opportunities, and coordinates with teachers, college and university personnel, resource specialists, and business and community organizations for the purpose of providing information, and making recommendations.
• Aids with the registration and orientation of new students regarding procedures and educational opportunities.
• Serves as a resource to students to provide counseling that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and maturity.
• Coordinates with teachers, college and university personnel, resource specialists, and business and community organizations for the purpose of providing information, and making recommendations.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
• Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing student information to prospective colleges and employers, as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Aids in the orientation of new teachers, and provides in-service training in guidance.

Additional Duties

Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal or as designated by the Superintendent.

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Knowledge of pre/post high school program eligibility requirements.
• Knowledge of college/university admissions processes, scholarship programs and other educational opportunities.
• Knowledge of current developments in business and industry regarding career opportunities and employment.
• Knowledge of differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards

Works in standard office and school building environments.