Elementary School Counselor

Description

About Bronx Arts

Bronx Charter School for the Arts (Bronx Arts) is a public k-8 school, located in both the Hunts Point and Soundview sections of the South Bronx. Bronx Arts is founded on the principle that a rich and vibrant background in the arts is a key component of achieving academic excellence. We strive to serve as a model that encourages creativity and innovation in the classroom, and inspires students to develop the intellectual and personal fortitude to realize their dreams. At Bronx Arts, students receive daily instruction in theater, dance, music, and visual arts; and lessons in these subjects are integrated into the academic curriculum.

Opportunity Summary

Bronx Charter School for the Arts is seeking an experienced Elementary School Counselor who is dedicated to the educational and emotional development of children. This role involves collaboration with school leadership, administration, and all members of the school community to advocate for services and programs that foster personal growth and academic success in accordance with New York State Learning Standards.

Responsibilities:

Direct Services

• Devote the majority of time to providing direct services to students and families through both preventive and responsive approaches.
• Serve as the mandated counselor for students with IEPs. 
• Consult with families and staff to assess student needs and interests, and to recommend appropriate educational options.
• Evaluate student needs and refer them to relevant school personnel, social agencies, community organizations, and alternative programs.
• Intervene in crisis situations.
• Prepare students for transitions to the next educational level through both group and individual work.
• Provide individual counseling to mandated and at-risk students, organizing sessions according to the master schedule.
• Advocate for the rights of Students in Temporary Housing.

Support and Accountability

• Support acclimating 5th graders to middle school. 
• Maintain ongoing school support services and data collection.
• Ensure timely maintenance of clinical paperwork, including school records, clinical notes, collateral information, student folders, and group notes.
• Facilitate successful transitions for students as they progress from grade level to grade level.
• Assist teachers and staff in understanding and utilizing DESSA data.
• Participate in meetings that further the school's overall mission, including those focused on social-emotional learning, attendance, and academic performance.
• Support with behavior management.
• Lead professional development initiatives for peers and provide support and consultation on social-emotional issues to staff.
• Attend professional development opportunities based on interest and identified needs.

Requirements

• New York State certification with a Master’s degree in Guidance Counseling.
• Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English is preferred.
• Familiarity with the Middle School Application System and New York City Schools.
• Understanding of developmental milestones for children aged 4 to 11 years.
• Knowledge of the counseling needs for this age group and relevant intervention modalities.
• A strong commitment to working within an urban educational setting.
• Proficiency in Powerschool.
• Exceptional oral and written communication and interpersonal skills, with a commitment to collaboration with various stakeholders to cultivate a holistic school community.
• Experience in managing and developing family leadership initiatives.
• Proven ability to create and maintain a warm and orderly educational environment.
• A strong sense of personal accountability for student achievement.
• An unwavering belief that all students can achieve at a high level.

Compensation

Compensation packages are competitive and commensurate with experience. Benefits include: Health, Paid Time-Off, Short-term Disability, Life Insurance, Commuter Benefit Program. Optional benefits include: Retirement Investment (403b Plan), Dental Insurance, Vision Plan, and Medical Flexible Spending Account.

Bronx Arts is an equal opportunity employer. Bronx Arts does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin.