SCHOOL COUNSELOR

School Counselor

Join the Arkansas Department of Education where each student is recognized as an individual. Through a cultivation of world-class educators, partnering with communities, and an influx of social supports, Arkansas Department of Education provides multi-level supports that help ensure students will receive a personalized education and develop a life-long love of learning.

Job Series: Counseling and Mental Health – Career Path Classification: School Counselor Class Code: SCM07P Pay Grade: SPC01 Salary Range: $58,700 - $86,876

Job Summary

The School Counselor provides academic, career, personal, and social-emotional guidance to students through a comprehensive counseling program. Working in collaboration with educators, families, and community agencies, the counselor supports student achievement and well-being through proactive programming and responsive services.

Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a comprehensive school counseling program that supports academic success, career development, and personal/social growth.
• Conduct individual and group counseling sessions for students dealing with academic, emotional, social, or behavioral issues.
• Administer needs assessments and use data to plan interventions aligned with school goals and student outcomes.
• Collaborate with teachers, school administrators, families, and mental health professionals to support student development and learning.
• Assist students in identifying and achieving postsecondary and career goals through academic planning and exposure to college/career readiness resources.
• Intervene in crisis situations, providing counseling or referral services as needed and in accordance with school policy.
• Advocate for equitable access to educational resources and promote an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
• Maintain accurate, confidential student records and documentation in compliance with FERPA and school district policies.
• Provide professional development or consultation to school staff on mental health, behavioral issues, and trauma-informed practices.
• Support implementation of school-wide behavior programs, threat assessments, and intervention teams.

Knowledge and Skills

Knowledge of developmental, social, and behavioral theories for children and adolescents. Knowledge of state and federal laws and regulations, as well as crisis response and suicide prevention techniques. Ability to conduct needs assessments, keep accurate and detailed records, and provide classroom guidance lessons effectively. Ability to communicate effectively with diverse communities, develop and coordinate care plans, and make sound decisions in high-stress situations. Skilled in time management, organization, and problem solving.

Minimum Qualifications

At least one year of experience in school-based mental health, special education, behavioral support services, or a related field. Licensure/Certifications: Must be a licensed Standard School Counselor (K-12) in the State of Arkansas. Other job-related education and/or experience may be substituted for all or part of these basic requirements, except for certification or licensure requirements, upon approval of the Qualifications Review Committee. The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.