School Counselor

Title:  School Counselor    

Reports to:  Building Principal

Purposes and Objectives of the Position: The School Counselor helps students attain an optimum level of personal and social adjustment.  In order to coordinate comprehensive counseling program- the School Counselor must work closely with the other staff and administration.

Qualifications:

• As set by Kansas State Board of Education
• Masters Degree from an accredited college/university

Specific Duties and Requirements:  

• Provide individual counseling and group guidance to help students cope effectively personal- social- academic- career- and family concerns.
• Consult with parents- teacher- administrators- and supporting agencies concerning the needs and abilities of students.
• Implement a comprehensive appraisal process by:
• selecting and administering appropriate ability- achievement- and interests tests-
• visiting with students and interview interested adults- and
• interpreting results to students- teacher- administrators- and parents.
• Update and maintain confidential student records- including cumulative transcripts and student files.
• Identify students with special needs and make appropriate recommendations and referrals.
• Implement an effective program of educational and career planning.
• Schedule opportunities for students to visit with resource persons about academic and career choices.
• Maintain a current library of career information- and assist students in using the information- and assist students in using the information effectively.
• Assist with enrollment and kindergarten round-up.
• Assist in a continuous program of student orientation.
• Assist in making recommendations for school curriculum and instructional practices.
• Assist with the activities of student organizations.
• Attend and assist when necessary with school events such as musical programs- athletics- student recognition ceremonies- graduation- and open house.
• See that district policies are observed during all activities.
• Keep abreast of new information- innovative ideas and techniques.
• Obtain advance approval of the Principal for all activities and expenditures.
• Adhere to all district health and safety policies- including all precautions of the Bloodborne Pathogens Exposure Control Plan.
• Other duties as assigned by the Principal- or other Administrative Staff

II. The employee contributes to safe and orderly work areas.

• Fosters a safe and orderly environment for students and peers.
• Takes appropriate action when students and peers exhibit emotionally/physically distressed behaviors.

III. The employee works to help ensure student achievement.

• Assists in developing school climate and conditions that help ensure maximum student achievement.
• Assists with student mentoring when assigned.

IV. The employee builds positive school/community relations.

• Supports the mission of the school and district.
• Facilitates cooperation between all persons in the school community.

V. The employee works to develop constructive peer and student relationships.

• Supports use of appropriate communications skills.
• Supports development of thinking skills.
• Follows all district and school policies- handbooks- and regulations.

VI. The employee works to develop effective and efficient performance.

• Sets high expectations for self.
• Uses a variety of materials- activities and approaches appropriate to the needs of the position.
• Develops and monitors plans and goals to improve individual performance.

VII. The employee practices responsible fiscal- facility- and resource management.

• Procures supplies and equipment following building budget guidelines.
• Establishes and enforces guidelines for students that ensure the care and maintenance of district facilities and equipment.
• Maintains and cares for school and district property in the teacher’s control.

VIII. The employee models positive professional attributes.

• Participates in professional activities to enhance knowledge and skills.
• Uses written and spoken language well.
• Maintains positive contact with supervisors and peers.
• Handles work in a timely and effective manner.
• Maintains physical and skill requirements necessary to meet job responsibilities.

Other Duties

• Performs other duties as assigned by the supervisor and in accordance with USD 453 Board of Education policies.

Knowledge- Skills- and Abilities Required:

• Ability to work cooperatively and constructively with others- including the ability to communicate effectively with a broad number of audiences.
• Ability to manage job responsibilities and to meet the established district outcomes.
• Ability to use necessary district-identified computer hardware and software- and other district-provided technology.
• Ability to physically adapt to the compressed time schedule of a school day and year.

Pre-Employment/Yearly Requirements: Employee shall meet all the pre-employment and yearly requirements as specified in the Policies of the Board of Education.

Term of Employment: 186 days

Salary: As set based on the USD #453 Salary Schedule

FLSA Status: Exempt

Evaluation: Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board of Education’s policy on evaluation of certified personnel and Article 31 of the Negotiated Agreement.  The qualifications and expectations set forth in this job description are to be read and interpreted in concert with the Negotiated Agreement.

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