SCHOOL COUNSELOR

School Counselor- 12 month

Full-time

Starting Salary-$55,000

Comprehensive benefits package at no additional cost to the employees

SCHOOL DESCRIPTION

West Philadelphia Achievement Charter Elementary School is an inner city Arts and Technology K-5 Elementary School seeking strong leadership in the Counseling Department. We are a family oriented environment with family and community involvement being an integral part of our mission to enrich the lives of our students.

JOB SUMMARY

The School Counselor will develop, implement and manage school guidance programs. Working with students in individual, small group and classroom settings. Helping students plan for a smooth transition after WPACES. The qualified applicant is a positive, caring, and results oriented. S/he is deeply committed to WPACES integrated approach to supporting and educating students. S/he is passionate about working with adolescents, particularly those who may require additional support to meet their unique educational and emotional needs. This individual believes that all children are capable of achieving at high levels and in the significance of making the connection between students' aspirations for their lives and careers and their education. This person also understands and models that learning and setback are opportunities for growth for both students and adults. The qualified applicant 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).