School Counselor - Elementary

Essential Job Functions

• Assists students to achieve school success and develop skills to engage in life-long learning
• Counsels students (individual and group) in the areas of academic, career, and personal/social concerns
• Provides programs, activities, and services which focus on helping children experience healthy growth academically, socially and for future success
• Publicizes and coordinates information to students and parents regarding student opportunities such as enrichment programs, scholarships, special programs, etc.
• Serves as an advocate for students and works to promote a healthy school climate and a safe learning environment
• Collaborates/consults with parents, teachers, administrators and community resources concerning student issues
• Serves as a liaison between school, community agencies, and post-secondary opportunities
• Serves as a resource for students and families regarding career development activities
• Offers guidance sessions on problem-solving decision-making and academic and career planning
• Aids students with course selection (secondary) relative to their educational pursuits and career goals
• Coordinates participation in career-related activities
• Demonstrates commitment to improving professional competence
• Affirms student learning on an ongoing basis and alters instruction to meet group/individual needs
• Uses the curriculum of the district to plan daily instructional activities

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of appropriate counseling interventions in a school setting, with special emphasis on the study of interpersonal relationships, facilitative skills, brief counseling, group dynamics, and group learning activities, of family systems, peer helper programs, multicultural and cross-cultural helping approaches, crisis intervention techniques and educational and community sources for special school populations
• Working knowledge of the concepts, principles, and methodologies of instruction
• Demonstrated ability to communicate with others effectively, both orally and in writing
• Demonstrated ability in crisis intervention, decision making, problem analysis, conflict resolution, interpersonal relationships, planning, and multi-tasking
• Post–graduate certification/licensure endorsement in elementary, middle or high school guidance by the Virginia Department of Education
• Master’s degree with an emphasis in guidance and counseling