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.
Definition An employee in this class will utilize leadership, advocacy, and collaboration to promote student success, provide preventive services, and respond to identified student needs by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program that addresses academic, career, and personal/social development for all students. Duties and Responsibilities Uses appropriate assessment and diagnostic procedures for determining and structuring individual and group counseling services. Follows up individual and group counseling to monitor student progress with the
SSMT 504
Process. Demonstrates knowledge of consulting processes and techniques with students, parents, teachers, and administrators. Assists parents and teachers in understanding and responding to the developmental levels of students. Presents instructional/informational programs to groups of students, parents, and teachers. Interprets achievement and aptitude test data to assist staff with the curriculum. Shares appropriate information about students with school and community agencies. Assists with the coordination of student services in the school. Interprets testing results and other student data accurately. Conducts non-standardized tests and inventories according to published practices and professional standards. Follows the laws, policies, and procedures which govern school programs. Adheres to ethical standards of the counseling profession. Takes part in professional development activities to improve knowledge and skills. Carries out other school duties as assigned by the administration, provided these assignments do not interfere with the counseling programs and services to students. Leads small groups weekly at a minimum. Accurately maintains cumulative folders. Must attend all professional development. Plans activities for the different grade levels. Other duties as assigned. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of educational laws, policies, rules, practices, and School Board Policy. Thorough knowledge of counseling ethics, procedures, and practices. General knowledge of the traits and characteristics of the varied student age and ability groups. Ability to understand, be sensitive, and work with each student on an appropriate level and with correct techniques and methods. Ability to analyze situations, determine possible options, and make appropriate decisions based on the facts and the specific situation. Ability to use sound judgment in approaching and working with sensitive and difficult situations. Ability to communicate effectively in oral and written forms. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with parents, students, teachers, staff, administrators, agency personnel, and others. Ability to develop and compile records and reports. Ability to plan and organize multiple activities, projects, and other tasks and monitor each appropriately. Understands the growth and development of the school's students. Minimum Education and Experience Master's Degree in School Counseling or licensure progress in School Counseling from a Regionally Accredited College/University. Licensed in 00005 or eligible for a license. Teaching experience preferred. Physical Requirements Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of stooping, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, fingering, grasping, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions. Must be able to perform light work exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently and/or a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects. Must possess the visual acuity to prepare data, work with records processes, and do extensive reading and research.
This Position Reports Directly To:
Principal Classification:
Exempt Salary:
North Carolina Salary Schedule for School Counselors, if fully licensed as NC School Counselor. Disclaimer The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to perform this job. If offered a position, the prospective employee must pass a required health exam, criminal records check, and drug test.
