Teacher Assistant School Counselor

ABOUT LA CHEIM

La Cheim has been providing a robust continuum of care for nearly 50 years to help children and adults who were previously unreachable. Our non-public school, community mental health center, therapeutic behavioral services program, and Short-Term Residential Treatment Program offer educational and mental health services throughout Alameda and Contra Costa County. 

Our team is made up of teachers, art therapists, counselors, psychiatrists, psychologists, RNs, social workers, MFTs, and mentors who are known for their caliber and compassion. They create life-changing experiences for those they serve. All La Cheim programs embrace and apply a Trauma-Informed approach to addressing emotional and behavioral issues.

By joining La Cheim you will be part of a supportive community serving an inspiration mission. You will enjoy rich benefits, valuable training and wellness opportunities, close support, and room to grow. 

POSITION DESCRIPTION

The Teacher Assistant School Counselor at La Cheim School supports students and promotes a positive learning environment for grades 6 to 12. This position involves a range of responsibilities, including transportation, classroom assistance, behavior intervention, and collaboration with the multi-disciplinary team. As a Teacher Assistant School Counselor, staff members foster a culture that supports students' academic success while guiding them through their mental health journey.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

1. Must have a valid California Driver License and car insurance
2. Must be able to pass all required tests and clearances (Live Scan (DOJ, FBI, Guardian) TB test, etc.)
3. A bachelor’s degree in social work, Psychology, Counseling, Human Services, Social Services, or related fields behavioral health field but not mandatory
4. One (1) year of experience providing direct services in Mental Health
5. Previous experience with youth, particularly underserved populations, or in a school
6. School Counseling Certification is preferred.
7. Excellent written and oral communication skills.
8. Exceptional interpersonal skills and a compassionate nature
9. Intermediate-level skills in MS Office (including Excel, Word, Microsoft TEAMS, and Outlook).

PROFESSIONAL ATTRIBUTES

1. Functions as a “team player,” prioritizing the organization’s best interests.
2. Proactively identifies opportunities for improvement and ways to contribute.
3. Exhibits creativity, adaptability, openness, and a high level of professionalism.
4. Possesses strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
5. Maintains confidentiality with discretion.
6. Demonstrates excellent verbal and written communication skills.
7. Works effectively independently and pays close attention to detail.
8. Collaborates well with other agency staff.
9. Outstanding organizational and time management abilities.
10. Exhibit a strong professional commitment and represent La Cheim effectively while engaging with the community.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The following is the extent of the specific activity required for this position:

1. Stairs – climbing stairs up to 50-100 – up to 2-4 hours, not continuously.
2. Sitting – up to 2 hours, not continuously; standing – up to 4 hours, not continuously
3. Walking – up to 2 hours, not continuously; bending over – up to 1 hour, not continuously.
4. Crawling – up to 0 hours; climbing – up to 0 hours, reaching overhead – up to a few minutes.
5. Crouching – up to ½ hour, not continuously; kneeling – up to a few minutes
6. Balancing – up to 0 hours; pushing or pulling – up to a few minutes.
7. Lifting or carrying – 25 pounds or less; repetitive use of feet – up to 0 hours
8. Repetitive use of hands – up to 0 hours
9. Grasping – with one or both, simple and firm, for up to 1 hour, not continuously
10. Fine dexterity - either hand up to 1 hour, not continuously Auditory and visual acuity – 8 hours within normal limits and maybe with glasses, contact lenses or hearing aids.
11. Driving cars and vans; Exposure to uneven concrete and blacktop
12. Exposure to normal dust, heat, and noise
13. Exposure to emotionally disturbed students who may be physically and verbally violent and require safe physical management.
14. Frequent exposure to office equipment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES

1. Transport students daily in agency vehicles to and from school; driving schedule can start as early as 7:00AM.
2. Transport families in agency vehicles to and from meetings as directed.
3. Assist the classroom teacher with planning, filing, organizing, and documentation.
4. Assist students individually and in small groups, focusing on their unique needs and IEP objectives.
5. Co-facilitate and lead elective periods (games & physical activities) and student social time.
6. Prepare and order meals for the students (breakfast and lunch).
7. Supervise students across the school setting and monitor their actions and interactions.
8. Knowledge of IEP goals and behavior for each student.
9. Encourage students to reach their IEP and Behavior Goals.
10. Assist in developing positive behavior interventions and plans, redirecting behavior as needed.
11. Engage with students as a positive role model, promoting a supportive and inclusive atmosphere.
12. Intervene in crisis as directed, following Pro-ACT principles.
13. Intervene using students’ behavioral programs as needed.
14. Write daily documentation notes about student engagement using Electronic Health Record system.
15. Maintaining a Rewards Program with students.

ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Complete all required trainings as assigned
2. Attend all mandatory meetings
3. Meet regularly for individual oversight with supervisor(s)
4. Other duties may be required as La Cheim continues its development. Employees are expected to be flexible and responsive to changes in the scope of duties.
5. Understand and embody La Cheim's philosophy, organizational culture, and communication channels by practicing a collaborative approach.
6. Complete any additional tasks assigned by the Supervisor, Department Head, and/or CEO
7. Assist with completing the student’s timecards.
8. Supervise students during field trips within the community.
9. Maintain classroom
10. Conducts conferences between students and staff to enhance student
11. Work collaboratively with a multi-disciplinary
12. Maintain professional behavior across all interactions, students, parents, and
13. Participate in all staff
14. Complete all mandatory training, including through Relias, and Pro-Act.
15. Oversee the maintenance of vehicles, collaborate with Program Assistant to schedule appointments and manage gas levels.
16. Employees are expected to be flexible and responsive to changes in the scope of duties, demonstrating a commitment to the evolving needs of the students and the school.

Salary : $21