What are the responsibilities and job description for the School Guidance Counselor-Elementary/Middle School position at TeachIowa?
JOB SUMMARY:
To plan, organize and implement an appropriate guidance program in an elementary or secondary learning environment that guides and encourages students to attain an optimum level of personal and social development.
SPECIFIC JOB SKILLS, EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE:
- Master’s degree in School Counseling or BA/BS degree or higher in counseling, mental health services, or similar
- Certification with Iowa Board of Educational Examiners as a school counselor or mental health professional
- Comprehensive knowledge and proven success implementing social/emotional programs for children based on developmentally appropriate practices
- Proficient with computer – Internet, Google, and Microsoft Office
- Able to be discreet and maintain confidentiality
- Strong organizational skills
- Self-motivated
- Exceptional interpersonal and presentation skills
- Professional oral and written communication skills
- Flexible, adaptive, and cooperative
- Enthusiastic supporter of Catholic faith and schools
- Flexibility with changing priorities and processes
- Able to remain calm under pressure while handling common inquiries, complaints, or identifying emergent situations
- Able to work well either alone or as part of a team
- Practicing Catholic preferred
- All who serve at Xavier Catholic Schools will witness by their public behavior, actions, and words a life consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Articulate the school’s mission to stakeholders and solicit support in realizing the mission
- Help students attain an optimum level of personal and social adjustment
- Provide individual counseling and group guidance to help students cope effectively with personal, social, academic, career, and family concerns
- Work through the problem-solving process to help identify students with special needs and make appropriate recommendations and referrals
- Serve as Section 504 Coordinator
- Provide leadership in MTSS, especially in the area of social/emotional health
- Represent the school in a professional, courteous and positive manner at all times
- Foster a professional working environment with an emphasis on confidentiality and customer service
- Maintain open, consistent and effective communication with parents, providing parent education training, assistance and support as needed
- Accept and respect differences in children, parents and coworkers
- Consult with parents, teachers, administrators, and supporting agencies concerning the needs and abilities of students
- Assist with enrollment and kindergarten round-up
- Be present in hallways during passing time, at student lunch, and extra-curricular events to help build positive relationships and actively engage with students
- Assist in a continuous program of student orientation
- Assist in making recommendations for school curriculum and instructional practices, especially in the areas of student discipline and well-being
- Attend and assist when necessary with school events such as musical programs, athletics, student recognition ceremonies, graduation, and open house
- Implement policies and procedures
- Update and maintain confidential student records, including cumulative transcripts and student files
- Maintain required trainings as required by the State of Iowa, Archdiocese of Dubuque, and the local site
- Keep abreast of new information, innovative ideas and techniques
- Work effectively with community organizations
- Effectively communicate with the school administrator
Why You'll Love Working With Us:
- A Faith-Filled Environment: Experience a workplace where you can openly share and grow in your faith with both students and colleagues. Be part of a community that supports and inspires one another in both professional and spiritual growth.
Attractive Salary Package: We offer a competitive salary that rewards your skills and experience.
Comprehensive Health Coverage: Stay healthy with our full health insurance options, including medical, dental, and vision plans.
Generous Paid Time Off: We believe in work-life balance, offering ample paid time off to recharge and take care of what matters most to you.
Life & Long-Term Disability Insurance: Your well-being is our priority—receive peace of mind with our life and LTD insurance options.
401(k) Retirement Plan: Plan for your future with our 401(k) plan, complete with company matching to help you save for tomorrow.
