Guidance Counselor / Student Support Specialist

We are seeking a passionate and versatile Guidance Counselor (or Student Support Specialist) who is dedicated to fostering the academic, emotional, and social growth of our students. This position is ideal for someone who is not only committed to guiding students through personal and behavioral challenges but is also passionate about student development from an academic standpoint, creating a positive, holistic learning environment for all.

This is a unique opportunity to join a Christ-centered school community where you will have a direct impact on the lives of students, helping them grow academically, socially, and emotionally. The role offers flexibility, including the possibility of supporting multiple campuses within our network, and requires a creative, flexible, and proactive individual.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Student Guidance & Counseling Support

• Provide counseling and emotional support to students dealing with personal, academic, and social challenges, integrating Christian principles of love, care, and guidance.
• Offer individual and group counseling sessions to address issues such as anxiety, conflict resolution, academic stress, peer relationships, and spiritual development.
• Serve as a resource for teachers, staff, and parents, providing guidance on how to support students' emotional and social well-being.
• Develop and lead workshops or small group sessions focused on life skills, emotional regulation, personal development, and conflict management.

2. Academic Support and Development

• Assist students with academic planning, including setting goals, managing study habits, and addressing learning challenges.
• Collaborate with teachers and the academic team to identify students who may need additional support, whether through tutoring, mentoring, or other intervention strategies.
• Support students in developing study skills, organizational skills, and strategies for academic success.
• Work with students on time management, test preparation, and creating action plans for academic improvement.

3. Recess and Social Development Support

• Supervise and engage with students during recess, fostering a safe and inclusive environment that promotes positive social interactions and physical activity.
• Develop and implement structured playtime activities to encourage teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.
• Assist with conflict resolution during recess, helping students resolve disputes peacefully and promoting emotional maturity.

4. Behavioral Support and Conflict Resolution

• Provide students with tools and strategies for managing behavioral challenges, focusing on emotional intelligence and conflict resolution.
• Work with teachers and parents to develop individualized behavior support plans, focusing on positive reinforcement and restorative practices.
• Be a trusted mediator for student conflicts, helping students navigate interpersonal issues with a compassionate and Christian perspective.

5. Parent & Teacher Collaboration

• Regularly meet with parents to discuss student progress, emotional well-being, and academic development.
• Collaborate with teachers and other school staff to ensure that each student’s needs are being met in both academic and emotional realms.
• Provide guidance to parents on how they can support their child’s emotional health and academic growth at home.

6. Student Development Programming

• Develop and facilitate age-appropriate development programs on topics such as self-esteem, bullying prevention, healthy relationships, and leadership development.
• Lead or assist with chapel services or school-wide assemblies on topics related to student wellness, personal growth, and Christian values.
• Coordinate programs that help students build character and grow spiritually, aligning with the school’s mission and values.

7. Administrative Duties and Reporting

• Maintain confidential records of counseling sessions, progress, and student well-being.
• Report on student development trends and needs to the Head of School and other staff members, providing recommendations for improvements in services or support.
• Assist in the preparation of student reports related to emotional, social, and academic development.

Qualifications:

• Degree or background in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field (required).
• Licensed or certification in counseling (LPC, LCSW, or similar) is preferred.
• Experience in a counseling or student support role, ideally in a school setting.
• Strong understanding of child development, emotional well-being, and learning strategies.
• Comfortable working with elementary or middle school-aged children.
• Understanding of and commitment to Christian values in education and counseling.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive issues with professionalism and discretion.
• Ability to work independently and manage a flexible schedule across multiple campuses.
• Creative and proactive mindset, with the ability to use downtime productively by developing student programs, activities, or resources that benefit the school community.

Please submit your resume here on really or send your resume or contact information to Joseph Jackson, Head of Schools at Joshua Christian Academy at jjackson@gotjosh.org

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $35,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year

Expected hours: 20 – 40 per week

Physical Setting:

• Office
• School

Schedule:

• 4 hour shift
• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Work Location: In person

Salary : $35,000 - $45,000