Elementary/Middle School Guidance Counselor

Friendship Public Charter School; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Friendship Public Charter School seeks a School Counselor to provide academic counseling, support students’ emotional well-being, and ensure equitable access to opportunities. Responsibilities include guiding students through college applications and facilitating workshops focused on career readiness.

The ideal candidate holds a Bachelor's Degree in School Counseling, has experience in urban settings, and is committed to supporting diverse student populations. This position emphasizes collaboration with educators and the community to enhance student success.

Qualifications

• Experience working in an urban school setting preferred.
• Proficiency in using counseling and academic management software is a plus.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive issues with compassion.

Responsibilities

• Provide individualized academic counseling to students.
• Guide students through the college application process.
• Provide individual and group counseling services to support students’ emotional well-being.

Skills

Experience in the role

Excellent communication skills

Strong understanding of urban student challenges

Ability to work effectively with a diverse population

Strong problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in School Counseling or related field

Master’s degree in School Counseling or related field

Tools

Counseling and academic management software

Job description

Responsibilities

• Academic Counseling:
  • Provide individualized academic counseling to students, helping them set realistic goals and develop plans for high school graduation, post‑secondary education, and career readiness.
  • Monitor students’ academic performance and collaborate with teachers and parents to address any academic challenges.
  • Assist students with course selection, scheduling, and understanding graduation requirements.
• College and Career Planning:
  • Guide students through the college application process, including exploring colleges, completing applications, and accessing financial aid resources.
  • Facilitate workshops and individual counseling sessions focused on career exploration, vocational training opportunities, and job readiness.
  • Develop partnerships with local businesses and organizations to provide internship and job‑shadowing opportunities for students.
• Social and Emotional Support:
  • Provide individual and group counseling services to support students’ emotional well‑being, addressing issues such as anxiety, depression, peer relationships, and family challenges.
  • Implement programs that promote positive behavior, conflict resolution, and stress‑management skills.
  • Respond to crises and connect students with external resources such as mental health services, social services, and community‑based organizations.
• Equity and Inclusion:
  • Advocate for all students, ensuring equitable access to academic and extracurricular opportunities, especially for historically underserved populations.
  • Collaborate with administrators and staff to create a school environment that is inclusive and culturally responsive.
  • Facilitate discussions and initiatives that address issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the school community.
• Collaboration and Community Engagement:
  • Work closely with teachers, administrators, and support staff to identify and address students’ academic, social, and emotional needs.
  • Engage with parents and guardians to keep them informed about their child’s progress and provide resources to support their involvement in the education process.
  • Partner with local organizations, community leaders, and other external resources to enhance the services available to students and families.

Qualifications

• Experience in the role preferred.
• Bachelor’s Degree in School Counseling or related field required.
• Master’s degree in School Counseling or related field preferred.
• Experience working in an urban school setting preferred.
• Strong understanding of the challenges faced by urban students and a commitment to helping them overcome barriers to success.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse population of students, parents, and staff.
• Knowledge of academic and career counseling techniques and best practices.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive issues with compassion and discretion.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to respond to crises with calm and clarity.
• Proficiency in using counseling and academic management software is a plus.

Equal Employment Opportunity

FPCS’s policy is to provide equal employment opportunity to all qualified applicants and employees regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, veteran status, status as a special disabled veteran, or any other protected criteria as established by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to recruitment and hiring, training, promotion, compensation, benefits, transfer, layoff, termination and all other terms and conditions of employment. Employment decisions at FPCS are based solely upon relevant criteria, including an individual’s capabilities, qualifications, training, experience and suitability.