School Counselor (SY25-26)

Welcome to Ames Community School District (CSD), where we are more than just a workplace – we are a community committed to fostering growth, recognition, and inclusivity. As an employee at Ames CSD, you will not only benefit from competitive compensation and a range of employee discount opportunities, but you will also have the chance to be part of an organization that values diversity and inclusion. Our commitment to providing state-of-the-art facilities, including new and renovated spaces, ensures that you will have the resources you need to excel in your role. 46.01% of certified staff have advanced degrees which highlights our dedication to professional development and advancement within the organization. Join us at Ames CSD, where your talents are recognized, and you have the opportunity to grow in a supportive and dynamic community.

Ames High School is seeking a School Counselor for the 2025-26 school year.

Summary
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate School Counselor to join our team. The ideal candidate will play a vital role in supporting students' academic, career, and personal/social development in accordance with the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) National Model. This role requires a proactive individual committed to fostering a positive and inclusive school environment.

Responsibilities/Essential Functions:

• Collaboratively creates, implements, and oversees a comprehensive, equity-focused, data-driven school counseling program aligned with the ASCA National Model, as part of a district-wide, systemic process in partnership with the district counseling team.
• Provide sshort-term individual counseling, small group counseling, and responsive services, including crisis intervention, aligned with multi-tiered systems of support (MTSS).
• Teaches Tier 1 counseling standards, focusing on career, academic, and postsecondary planning.
• Provides responsive services for mental health needs, including crisis intervention and short-term support, while collaborating with families, school staff, and mental health providers to ensure students receive comprehensive, ongoing care
• Maintains confidentiality and adhere to professional ethical standards in all interactions.
• Collaborates with school administration, teachers, families, and community stakeholders to provide referrals and ensure comprehensive support for students.
• Engages in PLC (Professional Learning Community) work with colleagues to enhance professional practice, share strategies, and improve counseling program outcomes.
• Participates in school leadership teams, contributing to school-wide initiatives, equity efforts, and decision-making processes
• Actively engages in professional development opportunities to enhance skills, stay informed of best practices, and support continuous growth aligned with the ASCA National Model
• Collects, analyzes, and uses data to evaluate program effectiveness, drive improvements, and demonstrate accountability

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Professional School Counseling
• State certification as a 5-12 School Counselor in state of Iowa
• Knowledge of the ASCA National Model and experience implementing a comprehensive school counseling program.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Commitment to equity and inclusion in education.

The successful candidate will exhibit:

• Understanding of the ASCA National Model and its components
• Knowledge of how to design, implement and evaluate a data-driven counseling program
• Understanding of evidence-based practices for addressing mental health needs, academic challenges and social-emotional development
• Short-term and small-group counseling techniques for diverse populations
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for working with students, families, school staff, and community stakeholders
• Capacity to contribute to school leadership teams, Professional Learning Communities (PLCs), and district-wide initiatives
• Competence in crisis intervention, de-escalation strategies, and supporting students in distress
• Familiarity with community mental health resources and processes for coordinating referrals and ongoing care
• Strong foundation in the ethical guidelines set by ASCA and knowledge of legal responsibilities related to confidentiality, reporting, and student rights
• Skills in creating inclusive, affirming, and safe spaces for all students, with a focus on equity and support for historically marginalized groups
• Cultural competency and an understanding of systemic inequities impacting student outcomes.
• Ability to balance multiple responsibilities, including direct services, program management, collaboration, and professional development
• Willingness to engage in ongoing professional development to stay updated on best practices and trends in school counseling
• Openness to feedback and continuous improvement
• Ability to create a sense of belonging and welcoming environment for all students, staff, and families.
• Consistent and punctual work attendance.

Benefits:

• Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• PTO (4), sick leave (12 days the first year), family sick leave
• IPERS Retirement

Choosing the Ames Community School District isn't just about a job – it's about becoming part of a vibrant and close-knit community, nestled in the heart of Iowa. With its small-town charm and big-city amenities, Ames offers a unique blend of contentment and excitement. As a college town, opportunities to engage and get involved abound, whether it's through cultural events, educational pursuits, or community initiatives. At Ames, you're not just joining a workplace; you're becoming a valued member of a community driven by collaboration, growth, and a shared commitment to excellence. Come be a part of Ames, where both your professional and personal aspirations can thrive.

Candidates, please follow the link to apply online: https://www.applitrack.com/amesk12/OnlineApp/JobPostings/View.asp?AppliTrackJobId=1410
Ames CSD is an E-Verify employer.

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