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.
Bernalillo High School 148 Spartan Alley Bernalillo, NM 87004 Get Directions Full Time $60,200 - $92,789 per year Bernalillo High School Posted 7/21/2026 SCHOOL
COUNSELOR
Reports To:
Building Principal General Job Description The School Counselor develops, implements, and evaluates a comprehensive school counseling program that supports the academic, career, college, and social-emotional development of all students. The counselor provides individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, consultation, and prevention services while collaborating with students, families, staff, and community agencies to promote student success in a safe and supportive learning environment. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Comprehensive School Counseling Program Develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with district goals and student needs. Assess school and student needs to establish counseling priorities and measurable program objectives. Coordinate and manage school counseling services and activities. Maintain counseling records and documentation in accordance with district, state, and federal requirements. Participate in ongoing program evaluation and continuous improvement efforts. Student Support Services Provide individual and small group counseling to address academic, social-emotional, behavioral, and career development needs. Assist students in developing decision-making, problem-solving, interpersonal communication, and self-advocacy skills. Support students experiencing personal, academic, behavioral, or family-related challenges. Provide crisis intervention and appropriate follow-up services. Identify students who may benefit from counseling services and coordinate interventions. Refer students and families to appropriate school or community resources when additional services are needed. Academic, Career, and Postsecondary Planning Assist students with academic planning and goal setting. Support students in developing educational, career, and postsecondary plans. Provide information regarding colleges, universities, technical schools, military opportunities, apprenticeships, scholarships, and workforce options. Assist students with graduation planning and required Next Step Plans. Write letters of recommendation and complete school reports for employment, scholarships, and college applications as appropriate. Assist with student scheduling and schedule changes. Prevention and Student Wellness Implement prevention and awareness programs addressing topics including: Substance abuse prevention Suicide awareness and prevention Bullying prevention Child abuse and neglect awareness Violence prevention Healthy relationships Attendance and dropout prevention Social-emotional learning Promote positive school climate and student well-being. Support behavior intervention and conflict resolution strategies. Consultation and Collaboration Consult with teachers, administrators, parents, and other school personnel regarding student needs. Collaborate with educators to support student achievement and positive behavior. Participate as a member of student assistance, intervention, IEP, 504, MTSS, and other multidisciplinary teams as assigned. Assist staff in understanding student developmental, behavioral, and mental health needs. Serve as a liaison between the school, families, and community agencies. Communication and Professional Responsibilities Communicate effectively with students, parents, staff, and community stakeholders. Maintain confidentiality in accordance with ethical and legal standards. Follow all district policies, administrative regulations, and state and federal laws. Adhere to the ethical standards of the American School Counselor Association (ASCA), New Mexico Public Education Department, and other applicable professional organizations. Attend required meetings, professional development, and training. Utilize technology and student information systems necessary to perform assigned duties. Complete other duties as assigned by the Building Principal and/or Superintendent. Additional Responsibilities Coordinate student orientation and transition activities. Interpret assessment and test results for students, families, and staff. Conduct classroom guidance lessons and student presentations. Provide parent education and informational workshops. Assist with student attendance interventions. Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and school improvement initiatives. Develop partnerships with community organizations and service providers. Stay current on counseling practices, educational trends, and state requirements through professional learning. Serve as a positive role model while promoting a safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environment. Report suspected child abuse or neglect in accordance with district policy and state law. Be available outside regular work hours when necessary. Supervisory Responsibilities Supervise students as assigned. No direct employee supervisory responsibilities. Qualifications Bachelor's or Master's Degree in School Counseling or related field from an accredited institution. Valid New Mexico School Counselor License with appropriate endorsements. National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential preferred. Previous successful school counseling or related educational experience preferred. Knowledge of counseling techniques, crisis intervention, child and adolescent development, college and career readiness, and student support services. Strong communication, collaboration, organizational, and problem-solving skills. Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound professional judgment. Ability to successfully pass all required employment background checks. Physical Requirements While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to: Sit, stand, and walk for extended periods. Bend, reach, squat, kneel, and occasionally climb stairs. Lift and carry materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Move light furniture and classroom equipment as needed. Operate computers, telephones, and other office equipment. Communicate effectively in person and by telephone.
Specific vision abilities required include:
Close vision Distance vision Peripheral vision Depth perception Ability to adjust focus Safety and Health Requirements Child Abuse/Substance Abuse Workshop Bloodborne Pathogens Training Compliance with all district safety procedures and required training Equipment and Materials Used Employees must be able to properly operate or learn to operate: Computers and student information systems Multimedia and presentation equipment Office equipment Current educational technology platforms and software Telecommunication equipment Work Environment The School Counselor works primarily in an indoor educational environment with occasional outdoor responsibilities. The position requires frequent interaction with students, parents, staff, and community members. The work environment includes moderate noise levels, frequent interruptions, and changing priorities. The position requires flexibility, independent judgment, professionalism, and the ability to respond effectively to student crises and emergency situations. Occasional evening or after-hours work may be required for meetings, parent conferences, student events, or professional development. Terms of Employment Salary, work schedule, and contract terms shall be established by the Board of Education in accordance with district policies and applicable collective bargaining agreements. Apply Now