School Counselor at Christian School Association of Greater Harrisburg – Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania

Job Title: School Counselor

Location: Campus

Job Type: Full-Time, Salaried

Reports To: Head of School

Job Summary:

As a School Counselor, you will support the academic, social, and emotional well-being of students. You will work collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, and administrators to provide guidance and assistance.

Desired Attributes:

• Professes a strong Christian faith in Jesus Christ and demonstrates regular attendance at a Bible-believing church aligned with the CSAGH Statement of Faith.
• Agrees with and upholds the principles outlined in Articles II, III, and XII, section 1 of the Constitution of the Christian School Association of Greater Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.
• Exhibits a clear commitment to Christian Education and a wholehearted embrace of CSAGH's vision.
• Self-motivated, dynamic, well-organized, and adaptable individual with a genuine desire to connect with, nurture, and minister to children.
• Cultivates healthy and positive relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and school administration.
• Willingness to participate in professional development and training as required.

Responsibilities:

Individual Counseling:

• Conduct one-on-one counseling sessions with students to address personal, academic, or behavioral concerns.
• Guide goal-setting, decision-making, and problem-solving.

Group Counseling:

• Facilitate group counseling sessions addressing common challenges and promoting a supportive community.
• Collaborate with teachers to identify students who may benefit from group counseling.

Crisis Intervention:

• Respond to and provide support during crises, offering immediate assistance to students in need.
• Collaborate with school administrators to implement crisis intervention plans.

Academic and Career Counseling:

• Assist students in academic planning, goal setting, and course selection.
• Guide career exploration, college preparation, and post-graduation planning.

Parent and Teacher Collaboration:

• Communicate regularly with parents regarding student progress and well-being.
• Collaborate with teachers to address academic and behavioral concerns, fostering a collaborative approach to student support.

Referral and Collaboration:

• Make appropriate referrals to external resources, such as mental health professionals or community services.
• Collaborate with external agencies to ensure comprehensive support for students.

Preventive Programs:

• Develop and implement preventive programs addressing topics such as bullying, substance abuse, and mental health awareness.
• Conduct workshops and presentations for students, parents, and teachers.

Record-Keeping:

• Maintain accurate and confidential records of counseling sessions and interventions.
• Prepare reports as needed for administrators and parents.

Summer Requirements:

• 4-6 hours per week, unless on vacation.
• Periodically check email over the summer.
• Assist students with course selection.
• Coordinate Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment with students over the summer.
• Meet with new students and parents to do course selection.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in School Counseling or a related field required, master’s preferred.
• Appropriate state certification or licensure, or willingness to obtain, required.
• Previous experience in school counseling or related field is preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Empathy, patience, and a genuine interest in student well-being.
• Commitment to ongoing professional development and growth.

Physical Requirements:

• The ability to stand, sit, move around the classroom for extended periods, use hands to handle or feel, and reach with hands and arms.
• Lifting, bending, and carrying classroom materials and supplies.
• Operate a computer and other office machinery such as a copy machine.
• Effective communication, both verbal and written, and listen regularly.