West Philadelphia Achievement Charter Elementary School
SCHOOL COUNSELOR
School Counselor- 12 month
Full-time
Starting Salary-$55,000
Comprehensive benefits package at no additional cost to the employees
JOB SUMMARY
The School Counselor will develop, implement and manage school guidance programs, work with students in individual, small group and classroom settings, and help students plan for a smooth transition after WPACES. The qualified applicant is positive, caring, and results oriented. This individual is deeply committed to WPACES’ integrated approach to supporting and educating students and is passionate about working with adolescents; particularly those who may require additional support to meet their unique educational and emotional needs. The ideal candidate believes that all children are capable of achieving at high levels and will set an example as a continuous, open-minded learner, devoted to evidence-based practices that promote student achievement and well-being. S/he will build trusting relationships with and support faculty, staff, students, and parents.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Advises and counsels students regarding academic, educational, and short-term social and emotional problems.
- Remains universally accessible and makes an effort to know every student for whom they are responsible.
- Provides individual student planning and responsive services to support students and their families regarding academic matters.
- Teaches guidance classes and provides guidance counseling to students through planned activities in small group or classroom settings to convey educational, social, and important school information, and offers workshops/seminars for parents.
- Consults, facilitates, and maintains communication with parents, teachers, administrators, and pertinent agents on specific student and parent academic and educational matters including academic modifications and/or accommodations.
- Provides feedback and recommends appropriate action and solutions to individual student’s academic and educational needs and abilities.
- Child Study Team (CST) coordinator who facilitates group meetings to identify students who may need targeted or intensive services in the areas of academics, behavior, attendance or health
- Assists students/parents in understanding school policies and procedures.
- Provides brief counseling to address social and emotional concerns and appropriately refers students to behavioral health specialists.
- Communicates, coordinates, and collaborates with behavioral health specialists on developing and implementing student supports.
- Supports, facilitates and attends appropriate student activities and events.
- McKinney-Vento homeless assistance liaison
- Trained in trauma informed approach
- Leads and supports 5th to 6th grade middle school transition
JOB REQUIREMENTS:
- Master’s Degree in Counseling/Guidance, Education, or Social Work
- Minimum of 2 years of school counseling experience
- Understanding and familiarity with computer applications
- Strong communication skills
- Strong organizational skills
- Must be able to obtain or currently have all background clearances (Federal, PA State, & Child Abuse).
- In the event that the need arises, you will need to be able to: lift, pull or push up to 15 lbs, walk a standard flight of stairs, or stand or sit for up to 45 minutes.