Russell Byers Charter School

Responsibility, Respect, Resilience, Reflection

Job Title: Middle School Counselor (Grades 6-8)

Position Overview:

Key Responsibilities:

1. Counseling Services:

•  Provide individual and group counseling to students, focusing on academic, social,
  and emotional growth.
•  Implement and track progress on IEP counseling goals and document all sessions as
  required by special education guidelines.
•  Support students in developing problem-solving, conflict resolution, and coping strategies.

2. Attendance Management:

• Monitor student attendance, identifying patterns of concern and intervening as
  needed.
•  Collaborate with families and school staff to address attendance challenges and
  develop improvement plans.
•  Maintain accurate records of attendance interventions and communicate regularly
  with administration.

3. Student Support and Advocacy:

• Serve as an advocate for students, ensuring their needs are met in academic and
  social settings.
•  Assist students in navigating peer relationships, self-esteem, and transitional
  challenges unique to middle school.
•  Facilitate communication between students, families, and teachers to address concerns and support student success.

4. Collaboration and Consultation:

• Work closely with teachers, administrators, and other support staff to provide a
  cohesive support system for students.
•  Participate in IEP meetings, providing input on students' counseling needs and
  progress.
•  Serve as a resource for families, offering strategies and tools to support students at home and in school.

5. Schoolwide Programming:

• Develop and deliver workshops, presentations, or initiatives that promote
  social-emotional learning, diversity and inclusion, and mental health awareness.
•  Support the school community in fostering a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.

Qualifications:

• Valid certification as a school counselor (as required by the state).
•  Experience working with middle school students, including those with IEPs.
•  Knowledge of special education laws and practices, particularly as they relate to
  counseling services.
•  Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.

 
Preferred Qualifications:

•  Master’s degree in School Counseling, Counseling Psychology, or a related field.
•  Experience in attendance monitoring and intervention strategies.
•  Familiarity with Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) or similar frameworks.

Work Schedule:

This is a full-time, school-year position with additional days as required for professional
development and preparation.

Compensation:

Commensurate with experience and qualifications, as outlined by the school’s salary scale.
This role offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on the lives of middle school students, supporting them in becoming resilient, compassionate, and successful individuals.