MIDDLE SCHOOL COUNSELOR

Position Type:
Middle School Teaching/Counselor

Date Posted:
12/2/2024

Location:
Box Elder, SD

Date Available:
2025/2026 SCHOOL YEAR

Closing Date:
open until filled

District:
Douglas School District VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

12/2/2024

MIDDLE SCHOOL COUNSELOR

2025/2026 SCHOOL YEAR

DOUGLAS SCHOOL DISTRICT 51-1

POSITION TITLE & DETAILS

TITLE

MIDDLE SCHOOL COUNSELOR

WORK DAYS

REPORTS TO

Building Principal

GROUP

Certified

EVALUATION

Building Principal

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION

Masters Degree in Guidance & Counseling

SD certification with school counseling endorsement

CERTIFICATIONS / LICENSE

SD certification with school counseling endorsement

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Individual Counseling and Student Support

• Provide individual counseling to support students' personal, social, and emotional development.
• Identify and address academic, social, and emotional barriers to student success.
• Develop individualized plans and interventions for students in need of additional support.
• Create and follow through with student success plans

2. Group Counseling and Facilitation

• Lead small group counseling sessions to address common issues such as social skills, stress management, conflict resolution, and self-esteem.
• Teach classroom lessons and support groups for specific issues, including bullying, family changes, and peer relationships.

3. Academic Guidance and Planning

• Work with students to set academic goals and plan their educational pathways regarding college and career readiness.
• Assist with course selection and planning to ensure students are on track to meet grade-level requirements.
• Monitor students' academic progress and intervene when students show signs of struggle.
• Monitor and assist in the registration process

4. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) Program Implementation

• Design and implement social and emotional learning programs to promote positive behavior and mental health.
• Work with teachers to integrate SEL principles into classroom activities and discussions.
• Teach SEL lessons that focus on empathy, self-awareness, decision-making, bullying, harassing and coping skills.

5. Crisis Intervention and Conflict Resolution

• Provide immediate counseling and support during student crises or emergency situations.
• Mediate and resolve conflicts between students, or between students and staff, to ensure a safe and supportive school environment.

6. Collaboration with Teachers, Parents, and Administrators

• Consult with teachers to understand classroom dynamics and develop strategies to support students' needs.
• Communicate regularly with parents about students' progress, challenges, and needs.
• Collaborate with administrators to implement school-wide programs and initiatives that support students' well-being.
• Being a member of the RTI, PBIS, student success, and IEP teams

7. Student Advocacy and Case Management

• Advocate for students' needs to ensure they receive equitable support and resources.
• Collaborate with community agencies, mental health providers, and external resources to support students and their families.

8. Data Collection and Reporting

• Maintain accurate records Ex: interventions, and student progress.
• Analyze and report data on student outcomes to help guide program improvements.
• Use data to evaluate the effectiveness of counseling programs and identify trends in student needs.
• Help organize monitor and proctor state and district assessments

9. Professional Development and Training

• Participate in ongoing professional development to stay current on best practices in school counseling and mental health.
• Provide training and resources for teachers and staff on topics related to mental health, conflict resolution, and student support.

10. Compliance and Confidentiality

• Ensure all counseling practices comply with ethical standards, legal requirements, and school district policies.
• Maintain strict confidentiality regarding student records and counseling sessions, except when required by law.

These responsibilities reflect the multifaceted role of a middle school counselor in promoting academic achievement, supporting mental and emotional well-being, and building a positive school environment.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Open Until Filled

Those interested in the above position should fill out an online application on the Douglas School District website (Employment Section) - www.dsdk12.net - Frontline Job Posting #4328 or complete the paper application and return to the address below.

Douglas School District Personnel Office, 400 Patriot Drive, Box Elder, SD 57719, (605) 923-0000.

Equal Opportunity Employer