Middle School Counselor in Bridgeport, Connecticut at GREAT OAKS CHARTER SCHOOL - BRIDGEPORT INC.

School Counselor

Great Oaks Charter School - Bridgeport | Middle School

About Great Oaks Charter School, Bridgeport

Three things are true about us.

One. We know education is demanding, so we make sure you never do it alone.

Whether you are an experienced educator or just starting your journey, we invest in your growth from day one. For those entering the field, we offer flexible temporary certification options along with step-by-step guidance and support to help you earn your permanent certification. Across every grade level, educators at Great Oaks receive dedicated weekly Professional Development, 1-on-1 instructional coaching, and embedded AmeriCorps tutors in ELA and Math classrooms to share the load. We know how tough this industry can be, and we actively strive to lift the burden wherever we can.

We are not a school that throws you into a classroom and expects you to sink or swim.

Two. We protect your energy and respect your life outside of school.

Great education requires rested, fulfilled professionals. All staff enjoy paid school holidays off, built-in calendar breaks, and a leadership team that genuinely respects your work-life balance. We are committed to helping you build a sustainable, long-term career in education—not exhausting your passion.

We are not interested in burning people out and replacing them. We are interested in building careers.

Three. Our culture is built on real collaboration and genuine appreciation.

We all work toward the same goal—student success—and we reach it by taking care of our team. Great Oaks is a place where colleagues actually show up for one another, share resources, and step in to help. Beyond the day-to-day teamwork, we make time to recognize your hard work with staff appreciation events, celebrations, and genuine gratitude throughout the year.

We are not a place where you work in isolation. We win, grow, and celebrate together.

If that sounds like the kind of place you want to work, keep reading.

Position Summary

School Counselors, through comprehensive school counseling programs of developmental, preventive, remedial, and responsive services, address academic development, career development, and personal/social development of students. The comprehensive school counseling program aligns with the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) national model and standards and current counseling skills and competencies.

Responsibilities:

• Uses data to develop comprehensive programs that meet the needs of students; establishes the school counseling program and develops activities and resources to implement and evaluate the program; develops and maintains a written plan for effective delivery of the school counseling program.

• Effectively implement a data-driven, grade-level appropriate college and career readiness program for all students.

• Utilize data to determine college readiness and to determine interventions needed to assist students to access post high school options.

• Collaborates with our College and Career Counselor identify individual needs for 12th grade students as they prepare for a college or career of their choice.

• Uses data to guide program planning; conducts a yearly program audit to review extent of program implementation and effectiveness.

• Monitors student academic performance, behavior, and attendance and facilitates appropriate interventions.

• Provides individual and group counseling services to meet the developmental, preventive, and remedial needs of students.

• Consults with students, parents, teachers, and other school and community personnel to assist in meeting the needs of students.

• Coordinate all counseling services for students and assists with the coordination and implementation of student services in the school.

• Implements developmentally appropriate and prevention-oriented group activities to meet student needs and school goals.

• Assists all students, individually or in groups, with developing academic, career and personal/social skills, goals, and plans.

• Acts as case manager for all 504 students working collaboratively with the Director of Special Services ensuring 504 students services are being provided and met.

• Collaborates with parents/guardians and educators to assist students with educational, career, and life planning.

• Cover classroom teaching if needed

What We Are Looking For

Requirements:

• Master's Degree from an accredited college or institution Preferred.

• Certified as a School Counselor/Guidance Counselor by the State of Connecticut.

• Familiarity with the Naviance and PowerSchool program is a plus

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Proficient in the knowledge and use of Technology and computer applications, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

• Experience in urban schools is preferred.

• Knowledge of current research and trends in school counseling and guidance.

• Knowledge of current research and trends in college and career readiness.

• Knowledge of crisis prevention and arbitration techniques.

• Ability to analyze data.

• “GRIT” – must have the ability to persevere and succeed at a challenging task.

• Relationship-building; must show evidence of building and leveraging strong relationships.

• Relentlessness – must be willing to do whatever it takes to constantly improve student achievement, including occasional evening and weekend commitments.

• Communicate Effectively – must be able to clearly communicate with peers and supervisors.

• Organization – excellent skills of organization and follow-through.

What You Can Expect From Us

• Competitive salary range: $56,000+ based on experience

• Certified Staff remain part of the CT Pension System.

• Medical, Dental, and Vision options

• 403b Plan

• Life insurance

• Short and Long Term Disability

• Paid Time Off

• Holiday Pay

• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact on student's lives and education.

• Professional development and training opportunities.

• Collaborative and supportive work environment.

• Meaningful connections with fellow educators, students, and the community.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Great Oaks Charter School is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive community and encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.