An Academic or Guidance Counselor provides guidance to students in elementary, middle and high schools to help them succeed academically and socially. Works with school teachers and administrators to address problems that affect student performance, and identifies resources for students and families. Helps high school students to plan academic course work and advises on the college search and application process.
Arizona Guidance Counselor Certification. Applicants need to be highly qualified as defined by the State of Arizona and other governing regulations Master's Degree with a major in guidance and counseling or social work. Three years of teaching experience at the K-8th school level preferred. A licensed professional counselor is preferred. First Aid/CPR Certified Valid Arizona Driver's License Ability to successfully pass a pre-employment drug test and extensive background check.
JOB GOAL
Support the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral success of students by providing comprehensive counseling services, crisis intervention, behavioral support, and prevention education. Collaborate with students, families, staff, and community partners to create a safe, supportive learning environment while maintaining accurate documentation, ensuring confidentiality, and promoting student well-being through data-informed interventions and evidence-based practices.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES
SKILLS required to satisfactorily perform the functions of the job include: applying Assessment instruments; operating standard office equipment, including using pertinent software applications; and preparing and maintaining accurate records.
KNOWLEDGE
is required to facilitate school-based and community presentations on topics such as suicide prevention and substance abuse prevention. Services will be provided with close supervision and according to training and experience. ABILITY is required to schedule activities and/or meetings; gather, collate, and/or classify data; and use basic, job-related equipment. Flexibility is required to independently work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; work with data utilizing defined but different processes; and operate equipment using defined methods. Required to work with a diversity of individuals and/or groups; work with similar types of data; and utilize specific, job-related equipment. Some problem-solving may be required to identify issues and select action plans.
POSITION RESPONSIBILITIES
Schedule activities, meetings, and/or events; gather, collate, and/or classify data; and use job-related equipment. Attends staff and in-service meetings, workshops, and school functions. Flexibility is required to work with others in a wide variety of circumstances; analyze data utilizing defined but different processes; and operate equipment using standardized methods. Ensure quality service delivery, including punctuality, good preparation, and consistent communication with staff. Maintain all client records in accordance with agency policies and procedures. This includes appropriate phone documentation and referral documentation. Assists individuals in understanding and overcoming social, emotional, and behavioral issues. Reviews recent research to improve counseling techniques. Provides educational programs with students, teachers, and parents. Develops Functional Behavioral Assessments and Behavior Intervention Plans in conjunction with relevant school staff, parents, and the student. Identifies, assesses, and responds appropriately to students in crisis. Determines appropriate program(s) of study to meet the specific needs of all students. Motivates students to maximize their learning potential and ensure that all students have successful experiences. Maintains confidential counseling records and documentation separate from other school records. Demonstrated ability to remain calm in crisis situations, work independently and cooperatively, recognize personal limitations, and relate positively and with empathy to all persons regardless of age, race, creed, gender or sexual orientation. Participate in ongoing evaluations and outcome studies to measure the effectiveness of services, projects, and programs being provided. Collects, organizes, and analyzes information about individuals through records, tests, interviews, and professional resources. Performs other job-related duties as assigned
PROBATIONARY PERIOD
Newly appointed employees will be subject to an initial ninety (90) calendar-day probation period.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, operate a computer, sit, and occasionally to reach with hands and arms. Specific vision abilities required by this job include vision. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by employees to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
This job operates in a professional office environment. This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, filing cabinets, and fax machines. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet/moderate noise.
