High School Counselor

Lee/Ogle/Whiteside Regional Office of Education #47; Campus (IL); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Lee/Ogle/Whiteside Regional Office of Education #47 is seeking a Guidance Counselor to provide comprehensive support to high school students. This role focuses on academic, social-emotional development, and college readiness, collaborating with students, educators, and families.

The ideal candidate will hold a Master's degree in School Counseling, possess a valid state licensure, and have experience working with high school students. This is a full-time position across the academic year, offering a collaborative environment focused on student success.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in School Counseling or related field.
• Valid state licensure or certification as a school counselor.
• Experience working with high school students.

Responsibilities

• Conduct individual and group counseling sessions.
• Collaborate with students to set academic goals and develop course plans.
• Guide students through the college application process.

Skills

Excellent communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Knowledge of adolescent development

Crisis intervention skills

Decision-making skills

Education

Master's degree in School Counseling

Valid state licensure or certification as a school counselor

Job description

Qualifications

• Position Type: Student Support Services/ Guidance Counselor
• Master's degree in School Counseling or related field.
• Valid state licensure or certification as a school counselor.
• Knowledge of adolescent development, social-emotional learning, and counseling techniques.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience working with high school students.
• Familiarity with college and career planning.
• Such alternatives to the above qualifications as the Board of Education may find appropriate and acceptable.

Reports To

6-12 Building Principal

Job Goal

To provide comprehensive guidance and counseling services to high school students, supporting their academic, social, and emotional development. Collaborate with educators, parents, and the community to promote student success and well‑being.

Performance Responsibilities

Student Support

• Conduct individual and group counseling sessions to address students' personal, social, and emotional needs.
• Assist students in developing decision‑making skills, coping strategies, and conflict resolution techniques.
• Provide crisis intervention and support during challenging situations.

Academic Planning

• Collaborate with students to set academic goals, develop course plans, and select appropriate classes.
• Monitor students' progress toward graduation requirements and provide academic interventions.
• Assist students with credit recovery and alternative education options.

College and Career Readiness

• Guide students through the college application process, including researching colleges, scholarships, and financial aid.
• Organize college fairs, career exploration events, and guest speaker presentations.
• Help students develop post‑secondary plans aligned with their interests and goals.

Social‑Emotional Learning

• Deliver classroom lessons on topics such as stress management, self‑esteem, and healthy relationships as needed.
• Provide guidance on addressing mental health challenges and refer students to appropriate resources.
• Support students in developing resilience and coping skills.

Individualized Plans

• Create, manage, and update 504 plans for students with special needs.
• Collaborate with special education staff to ensure accommodations and support are implemented.

Data Analysis

• Analyze student data to identify trends and patterns related to academic achievement and well‑being.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of counseling programs and interventions.

Collaboration and Communication

• Collaborate with teachers, parents, and administrators to support students' academic and personal growth.
• Conduct parent‑student‑counselor conferences to discuss academic progress and post‑secondary plans.

Professional Development

• Stay current with developments in school counseling and higher education through ongoing professional development.
• Participate in school‑wide initiatives aimed at enhancing student success and college/career readiness.

School‑Community Relations

• Establish partnerships with colleges, universities, and community organizations to expand opportunities for students.
• Collaborate with local agencies to connect students and families with social services.

Terms of Employment

9 ½ months, 190 days as determined by the school calendar. Salary and benefits in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement.

Evaluation

To be conducted by Building Administration.