Long-term Substitute Upper School Counselor

Founded in 1856 by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, the Academy of Notre Dame de Namur is an independent, college-preparatory, Catholic, all-girls’ day school located on the Main Line outside Philadelphia. The school is dedicated to teaching young women “what they need to know for life” in preparation for responsible living in a global society.

About the role

Reporting to the Director of Student Support and Well-Being, the Upper School Counselor guides and implements a comprehensive counseling program for students in grades 9 through 12, consistent with the standards set forth by the American School Counseling Association and within the parameters of the Academy of Notre Dame’s mission. This is a long-term substitute position beginning in early November 2026 and continuing through February 2027.

The Upper School Counselor leads grade-specific seminar classes and counsels individual students in their academic, social-emotional, and future-focused development. The role involves supporting students with learning differences, collaborating with Learning Specialists and the Student Support and Well-Being team, and building strong partnerships with families and students to encourage a safe, supportive, and inclusive school climate.

Responsibilities

• Implements the upper school counseling curriculum through delivery of developmentally appropriate lesson plans consistent with American School Counseling Association Standards and the school’s mission in three domains: academic, career, and social development.
• Guides individuals and groups of students through the development of educational and career plans using Scior as a resource.
• Counsels individuals and small groups of students facing difficulties.
• Consults regularly with faculty, parents, school nurse, learning specialist(s), and administration regarding upper school student concerns and interventions.
• Refers students and families to external programs, specialists, and resources as needed.
• With the Learning Specialists, participates in and helps facilitate educational intervention plans.
• Collaborates in developing resources to share in the school’s weekly communication with parents.
• Serves as an upper school advisor and a member of the Student Support Team.
• Embraces and promotes a culture of ongoing professional growth.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Counseling
• Certification as a School Counselor
• Three to five years of experience in a school setting

Skills

• Exceptional organizational and communication skills
• High degree of emotional intelligence and cultural humility
• Unwavering professionalism
• Experience and comfort supporting students with learning differences
• Well-versed in current trends in secondary education and school counseling
• Experienced in social-emotional and mental health programming and best practices
• Skilled in supporting students with diverse learning needs
• Enthusiastic and practiced in DEIB-centered work