Director of School Counseling

Job Goal: The Director of School Counseling provides leadership, vision, and implementation of a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with the Catholic mission of the school. The director ensures that students receive academic, personal, social, and college/career counseling while promoting the development of the whole person in accordance with Catholic values. The director collaborates with faculty, administration, and parents to support students' spiritual, academic, and emotional well-being.

Classification: Full-time, 12 months, Non-exempt. Occasional evening and weekend work will be required to assist with special events.

Reports to: Principal

Performance Responsibilities:

• Leadership and Program Development:
  • Develop and implement a comprehensive, faith-based school counseling program that aligns with Catholic teachings.
  • Provide leadership and oversight of counseling services, ensuring students’ academic and emotional needs are met.
  • Supervise and support other school counselors, ensuring best practices and professional growth.
  • Serve as a resource to administration and faculty regarding student support strategies.
  • Utilize data to make informed decisions about program effectiveness and student support strategies.
• Student Support Services:
  • Serve as a member of the student support team to partner with students, parents and teachers to encourage positive student behaviors that ensure success.
  • Provide individual and group counseling to address students’ academic, personal, and social needs.
  • Offer crisis intervention and support students experiencing emotional or behavioral challenges.
  • Implement programs that promote student well-being, mental health, and positive decision-making.
• College and Career Counseling:
  • Guide students and families through the college admission process, including standardized testing, application procedures, and financial aid.
  • Organize college fairs, career days, and informational sessions for students and parents.
  • Support students in exploring vocational and career pathways aligned with their talents and faith.
  • Administer standardized tests such as the ACT, PSAT, CTP, and state tests for applicable students.
• Collaboration and Communication:
  • Work closely with teachers, administrators, and parents to create a supportive educational environment.
  • Conduct parent meetings, workshops, and presentations on student development and mental health.
  • Maintain confidential records and ensure compliance with ethical and legal counseling standards.
• Spiritual and Ethical Commitment:
  • Foster a school culture that integrates Catholic values in counseling services and student interactions.
  • Provide pastoral support in collaboration with campus ministry and religious education staff.
  • Encourage students to grow in faith, character, and moral decision-making.

We welcome faculty, students, and families of diverse faiths and backgrounds at Pope John Paul II Preparatory School. We encourage all interested candidates to apply for the position by uploading the following supporting documents. If you have questions please email Jennifer Dye, Principal (jennifer.dye@popeprep.org):

• A cover letter that includes but is not limited to the following:
  • Your interest in our 6-12 grade community
  • Your desire to teach in a faith-based school
  • Your contributions outside of the classroom
  • Your passions that make you unique
• A resume that emphasizes educational and professional experiences
• A statement of teaching philosophy

Located just north of Nashville, Pope John Paul II Preparatory School is a part of the Diocese of Nashville and offers competitive compensation and benefits. Pope John Paul II Preparatory School does not discriminate based on race, color, nationality, ethnic origin, age, or sex. We look forward to reviewing your application.

• Master’s degree in School Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field.
• State certification/licensure as a school counselor.
• Minimum of five years of school counseling experience, preferably in a Catholic or faith-based school.
• Demonstrated leadership experience in a counseling or educational setting.
• Proven leadership experience in developing and managing counseling programs.
• Practicing christian with a strong commitment to Catholic / christian education and values.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Knowledge of counseling best practices and ethics, college admissions, and crisis intervention.