School Counselor

About the role

The School Counselor at the Waldorf School of Baltimore supports the academic, social-emotional, and developmental needs of students from early childhood through eighth grade. The counselor works collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, and administrators to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environment.

Responsibilities

• Carry out the responsibilities of the position as described below.
  • Collaborate and work directly with the Student Support Group.
  • Inform the Academic Director of problems and issues which may interfere with the ability to carry out the responsibilities below.
• Student Support:
  • Using support circles and other strategies, provide developmentally appropriate individual and group support for students dealing with personal or social challenges.
  • Conduct classroom lessons addressing social-emotional learning topics and related content such as emotional regulation, peer relationships, conflict resolution, and executive functioning.
  • Work with the Student Support Group (SSG) to become familiar with and implement Kim John Payne’s program for Integrated Student Support and similar programs.
  • Facilitate the Student Social Action Committee (SAC), and guide students in implementing strategies for peer-to-peer support.
  • Contribute to the development of a safe and respectful school climate through restorative practices, anti-bullying, and anti-bias initiatives.
  • Work with the SSG to assist students with transitions between grade levels and support eighth grade transitions to high school.
  • Provide reports to the SSG as needed.
  • Work with the Student Support Coordinator to develop and maintain the documentation of counseling services.
  • Contribute to Student Learning Plans in collaboration with the SSG and faculty members.
  • Maintain a tracking system for student data.
  • Recommend outside services in collaboration with the SSG.
• Faculty/Collegial Support:
  • Partner with teachers to support students’ behavioral and emotional needs in the classroom.
  • Collaborate with the SSG and faculty to identify students at risk and implement early intervention strategies.
  • Collaborate with the Academic Director to lead training for staff on integrated student support and other SEL initiatives.
  • Network with school counselors in the area to build collegial community.
• Parent/Caregiver Support:
  • Communicate with parents about students’ individual social and emotional needs.
  • Facilitate and provide opportunities for parent education about social-emotional learning topics.
  • Collaborate with outside support services and specialists (e.g., psychologists, social workers, physical and occupational therapists) when needed to support students and families.
  • Review reports sent to parents of students with Student Learning Plans.

Qualifications

• Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, including a skill set in building trusting relationships with parents and navigating difficult conversations.
• Hold a bachelor’s degree in counseling or a related field.
• Hold a current license in social work or counseling.
• Hold liability insurance.
• Become familiar and work within the AWSNA Principles for Schools.

Preferred Experience

• Experience working with children in early childhood and elementary/middle school settings.
• Experience with restorative justice and equitable practices.

Employment Details

• The School Counselor is a full-time 12-month, benefited position.
• Salary range is $70,000-$80,000, depending on qualifications and experience.

To Apply

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to Jennifer Larson, Academic Director, at jlarson@twsb.org.