Lower School Counselor

General Summary: Provides support to the lower school community by providing a comprehensive school counseling program designed to support the academic, social, and emotional development of each student. Serves as a resource by developing, leading, and assisting in the implementation of strategies, practices, and initiatives intended to promote a positive school culture that is inclusive and responsive to all members of the school community.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Creates a supportive learning environment for all students that is conducive to learning and appropriate to the maturity and interest of the students by overseeing the Lower School advising program and working directly with each grade level to facilitate the program.
• Encourages social and physical interaction, active engagement in learning, and self-motivation.
• Counsels students to promote social and emotional development.
• Assesses and refers students and families to outside agencies and resources.
• Supports the implementation of curriculums designed to promote emotional development of students.
• Develops and implements activities to support transition of students and families new to USM.
• Responds to crisis situations when appropriate.
• Serves as a resource by developing and implementing programs and services intended to build a healthy school climate for all members of the school community.
• Provides regular feedback to students and parents with whom she/he works.
• Monitors the Lower School environment, including student morale and issues that may concern students. Keeps advisors informed about any problems their advisees may be having.
• Attends and participates in professional meetings, including collaborative teams, division meetings, and professional development.
• Works collaboratively with administrators to strengthen the Lower School.
• Completes other tasks as deemed appropriate by the Lower School Administration.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Ability understand developmental levels of students and apply to practice.
• Ability to analyze data and use it to develop practices as well as the ability to communicate implications to students and families.
• Secure knowledge of best practices in school counseling and familiarity with area behavioral health resources.
• Strong classroom management skills with the ability and the desire to work with a diverse student body
• Ability to work collaboratively with others and maintain positive professional relationships
• Ability to read, comprehend, follow and give oral and written instructions
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills
• Excellent organizational skills with a strong degree of self- direction and motivation
• High level of maturity, confidentiality, and assertiveness
• Capable of using tact and diplomacy in dealing with others

Capable of competently operating  technology