High School Adjustment Counselor

The School Adjustment Counselor for the Bridge Program provides targeted social-emotional support to students transitioning back to the school environment. This includes students returning from hospitalizations, out-of-district placements, and those experiencing significant mental health challenges. The counselor works collaboratively with students, families, staff, and community partners to help students navigate personal, academic, and social difficulties. This role is instrumental in developing and implementing individualized interventions and strategies that promote student well-being, while contributing to a safe, supportive, and inclusive school culture.

Knowledge:

1. Maintain positive and professional relationships with students, families, colleagues and supervisors.
2. In-depth knowledge of child development, mental health issues, and social-emotional learning
3. Remain calm and respond effectively in emergency situations.
4. Familiarity with evidence-based counseling techniques and strategies for crisis management
5. Read, write, speak and understand English fluently.
6. Exhibit professionalism through consistent attendance, appropriate work attire, and sound judgment.
7. Understanding of IEPs, 504 Plans, and accommodations for students with disabilities
8. Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills, professionalism, organization, and self-motivation.
9. Knowledge of state and federal regulations related to student welfare and mental health
10. Awareness of cultural, socioeconomic, and community factors that may affect student behavior and learning
11. Proficiency in using technology for record-keeping, reporting, and case management

Responsibilities:

1. Provide individual and group counseling services to students, including those in the Bridge Program, addressing personal, academic, and social-emotional issues as outlined in their IEPs.
2. Support students transitioning into the school setting from hospitalizations, out-of-district placements, or extended absences, ensuring a smooth re-entry and reintegration process.
3. Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and support staff to identify and address students'' needs
4. Develop and implement school-wide initiatives to promote social-emotional learning (SEL)
5. Lead or assist in crisis intervention and conflict resolution as needed
6. Support the development and implementation of individualized support plans for students, including IEPs and 504 Plans
7. Monitor and track the progress of students'' IEP goals related to social-emotional development and behavioral needs
8. Actively participate in IEP meetings, contributing input on social-emotional goals, interventions, and accommodations
9. Work with teachers and staff to ensure that students'' IEP goals are being implemented effectively within the classroom and school environment
10. Document and report on student progress towards IEP goals, providing regular updates to the IEP team
11. Develop and implement interventions for students based on IEP goals and progress monitoring data
12. Provide guidance and recommendations for modifications to IEP goals and interventions as needed
13. Maintain accurate and confidential records of student counseling sessions and other services provided
14. Facilitate parent meetings to discuss student progress, concerns, and strategies for support
15. Offer consultation and guidance to staff regarding student behavior and mental health concerns
16. Participate in school-based teams to support at-risk students, including those in the Bridge Program, and coordinate with outside mental health agencies when appropriate.
17. Provide professional development for staff on topics related to mental health, behavioral support, and social-emotional learning
18. Promote positive school climate and advocate for a safe, supportive environment for all students
19. Prepare materials to be used during the students' Extended School Year (ESY)
20. Participate in all required professional development events
21. Participate in all required school meetings, which are held for the purpose of improving both curricula and extracurricular activities
22. Maintain appropriate DESE licensure
23. Perform other duties as assigned by the Building Principal and/or Director of Pupil Personnel Services