POSITION TITLE: Academic & College Counselor
REPORTS TO: Dean of Academic & College Counseling
PURPOSE OF POSITION: The Academic & College Counselor serves as a pivotal figure in guiding students towards academic success and college readiness. This role involves providing comprehensive support to a designated cohort of students, ensuring their holistic development from 9th to 12th grade.
SUPERVISES: N/A
Full-Time
FSLA Status: Exempt
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
Academic Counseling:
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Provide expert guidance and support to students across grades 9-12, aiding in the formulation of strategic academic plans and thoughtful course selections.
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Understand and enforce academic policies.
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Conduct biannual individual meetings with students to craft a comprehensive four-year academic plan and address any academic challenges.
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Implement targeted academic support plans for those who are struggling.
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Foster collaborative relationships with faculty, parents/guardians, and students to optimize academic support and student success.
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Collaborate with the Wellness Center and/or Learning Specialist to develop tailored academic and/or personal interventions for students, as needed.
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Assume responsibility for maintaining meticulous student academic records, including tracking students with academic deficiencies, updating graduation progress reports, and coordinating summer school enrollment.
College Counseling:
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Provide personalized support to students, assisting with college list development, application essay review, application submission, and resume refinement.
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Conduct individual and group counseling presentations to students and parents/guardians to address various aspects of the college application process.
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Craft compelling letters of recommendation for each student in the caseload, showcasing their academic achievements and personal attributes to prospective colleges.
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Actively participate in professional development activities such as admission representative visits to campus, national conferences, and/or regional workshops, to stay abreast of best practices in college admissions counseling.
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Cultivate relationships with college admissions representatives to advocate for students and stay informed about evolving admissions criteria.
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Develop and deliver workshops and webinars addressing topics the college admission process, such as college essay writing, UC/CSU applications, Financial Aid and Common Applications.
Additional Responsibilities:
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Offer compassionate social-emotional support to students as needed, connecting them with the Wellness Center for referrals and additional assistance.
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Collaborate with the Counseling Department to design and implement parent education programs and presentations.
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Assist in coordinating counseling events, including grade level meetings and honor award ceremonies.
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Counselor hours vary from the regular teaching day. There may be a need to fulfill added duties after school and on the occasional weekend.
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Fulfill additional duties as assigned by Administration.
REQUIREMENTS:
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Possession of a Master’s Degree in School Counseling or a related field, with a preference for candidates holding a PPS Credential.
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Prior experience in guiding students through the college application process is required.
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Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
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Demonstrated ability to engage effectively with a diverse student population and collaborate with parents and guardians in support of student success.
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Previous experience in a high school setting.
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Proficiency in delivering engaging presentations to both small and large groups.
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Availability to attend evening meetings, professional development sessions, and off-campus activities as required.
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Thorough understanding and adherence to ethical and legal guidelines established by professional counseling associations such as the American School Counselor Association and NACAC.
