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.
School Adjustment Counselor - Chestnut Street Academy 2026-2027
Amherst Pelham Regional School District
Chestnut Street Academy - Amherst, Massachusetts This job is also posted in Amherst-Pelham Regional Public Schools
Job Details
Job ID:
5894600
Application Deadline:
Sep 03, 2026 11:59 PM (Eastern Standard Time)
Posted:
Yesterday
Starting Date:
Immediately
Job Description
The Amherst Public School District is seeking a highly qualified candidate for a part-time (60% FTE) School Adjustment Counselor position at Chestnut Street Academy, which serves students in Grade 6. Of the 60% FTE position, 20% FTE is contingent upon grant funding. The School Adjustment Counselor will work closely with the special education team, guidance counselor, administration, families and outside agencies/providers to address the school based needs of student IEPs.
Highly qualified candidates possess the following: A successful candidate will be enthusiastic, committed to education, and willingly collaborate to meet diverse student needs.
Strong positive, effective written and oral communication skills
Ability to build effective, collaborative relationships with students, paraeducators, teachers, service providers, program coordinator, administration, families, educational team leaders, outside agencies, and to work as part of a professional learning community and multi-disciplinary team
Strong case management and home-school communication skills
Highly effective executive function skills including being well organized, strong time management skills, and able to work independently to meet timelines. Ability to multitask, show flexibility, and work within a fast paced environment Experience with trauma, anxiety and other mental health needs
Experience with completing all aspects of the IEP process including implementation, monitoring, and development
Experience with a diverse population of students within a multicultural school community
Experience with and commitment to inclusion that benefits students socially, emotionally and academically
Strong skills in de-escalation. Trained, or willing to be trained in, a MA approved physical restraint procedure Ability to support students across settings
The school adjustment counselor will have the following roles and responsibilities include but are not limited to: Provide group and individual school based counseling services including skills development
Case management services for assigned caseload
Provide classroom based supports, consultation and interventions to students
Collaborate and consult with school personnel on topics related to social/emotional learning and mental health issues
Provide crisis intervention when needed
Develop behavior supports plans and interventions; collect and analyze data to inform progress and intervention adjustments
May conduct assessments (FBA)
Develop IEPs and write progress reports for students on caseload
Participate in IEP Team meetings to report on progress for students on the caseload
Attend scheduled staff meetings
Attend district-wide mental health team meetings and trainings
Conduct self-harm and threat assessment screenings as indicated
Qualifications:
Master's Degree in Social Work, Psychology, or other mental health provider field preferred
DESE School Adjustment Counselor certification
Background working with children with special educational needs including but not limited to social, emotional and behavioral needs
Bilingual and multicultural candidates are encouraged to apply
