Dorchester County Public Schools is currently accepting applications for School Counselors. Under the direction of the school principal and the Supervisor of School Counselors, School Counselors provide a comprehensive developmental program of guidance and counseling to assist students in the areas of academic achievement, career/educational decision making, and personal and social development.

DUTIES:

• Implement the American School Counselor Association (ASCA) framework to support students’ academic achievement, personal/social development, and career development.
• Provide individual and group counseling for students.
• Provide a data-driven counseling program that enhances the needs of the school and students with a focus to make improvements.
• Serve a vital role in the multi-tier systems of support (MTSS) process working collaboratively, with stakeholders to support student success.
• Provide interventions and strategies from a proactive perspective.
• Utilize resources to help students explore career interests and provide information to help them make decisions.
• Process necessary referrals to appropriate school and community resource personnel for diagnostic assistance.
• Consult with parents and school leadership to effectively provide support for students and families as needed.
• Monitor student attendance.
• Register, schedule, and orient new students to school procedures and to the many opportunities for learning (secondary school counselor).
• Collaborate with stakeholders to ensure early college and career awareness is introduced to all students (e.g., Career Fairs, Guidance Lessons, College Trips, etc.).
• Infuse technology to support career exploration (Knowledge of Naviance)
• Serve on school and community committees.
• Maintain a school counseling program that is inclusive of all students, promotes diversity, and encourages potential for all students.
• Participate in job related training classes, workshops, or courses.
• Attend school related functions and provide support to the total school operation.
• Conduct classroom guidance lessons based upon developing college and career ready students.
• Serve as an advocate for students and represents them in working toward resolving conflicts.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Eligible for and hold, prior to appointment, the Maryland State Department of Education Certification for School Counselor in accordance with COMAR 13A.12.03.02.
• Master’s degree from an accredited college or university in school counseling.
• Three (3) years’ experience as a teacher and/or counselor preferred.
• An awareness of the DCPS Policies and Procedures; Comprehensive School Counseling Program; and Program of Study (middle and high school).
• Knowledge of growth and developmental stages of children.
• Knowledge and experience in behavior and academic interventions.
• Knowledge with data collection and analysis.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team or independently with staff, students, and parents.
• Ability to use a computer and other technology.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to speak effectively to large and small groups.
• Ability to establish relationships with all groups.