High School: College and Career Counselor (August 2026)

Permanent Position Beginning August 2026

The Upper Darby School District is seeking applicants certified as a certified School Counselor for a full-time vacancy at Upper Darby High School. The College and Career Counselor will play a critical role in providing comprehensive counseling support to high school students while also instructing a specialized counseling support course focused on promoting College and Career Readiness and developing mentorship skills in students. This position involves a combination of traditional school counseling duties and teaching responsibilities, with a focus on equipping students with essential life skills, emotional intelligence, and decision-making capabilities. The Counselor will work collaboratively with the counseling department and school faculty to play a crucial role in preparing our students for successful transitions into higher education and the workforce.

Qualifications:

1. PA Instructional Certificate - Elementary and Secondary School Counselor (PK-12)

Out-of-state educators and anyone seeking an emergency certificate should review the guidelines set by the PA Department of Education. Pennsylvania Certification information is available at:

2. Masters degree required in appropriate major study


3. Knowledge of content in certification area


4. Classroom/group management skills


5. Ability to use instructional materials and equipment


6. Knowledge of child growth and development


7. Instructional skills


8. Planning Skills


9. Human Relations Skills


10. Strong communication and motivational skills.


11. Ability to effectively communicate with, instruct, and work with students, staff and parents.

Job Goal:

To participate, as a member of the instructional staff, in directing the learning of high school students. Such participation shall be directed toward attainment of general and specific objectives of the curricula of the school, and of the school district.


Major Functions:

• Provide individual, group, and whole class counseling to students

• Develop and deliver a comprehensive counseling support curriculum tailored to high school students in a traditional classroom environment.

• Plan and facilitate engaging classroom lessons and activities to foster students' understanding of career options, academic planning, and personal development.

• Administer and interpret a variety of career and college assessments to guide students in making informed educational and career decisions.

• Interpreting results from career surveys and supporting students in identifying next steps

• Utilization of college and career platforms / websites to assist students in navigating post-secondary planning

• Coordinate and execute aspects of a high school college and career fair.

• Collaborate with external organizations and agencies to actively engage the local community and enhance program effectiveness through partnerships and outreach initiatives.

• Foster a supportive and inclusive classroom environment that encourages open communication and active participation.

• Responsible for the implementation and artifact collection for Career Education and Work standards

• Stay current with counseling best practices, educational trends, and relevant research.

Our Mission:

It is the mission of the Upper Darby School District to provide a comprehensive educational program that develops all learners into critical thinkers, with effective communication skills, empowering them to adapt to an ever-changing world. Our students will demonstrate integrity and confidence while cultivating a learner's mindset in pursuit of personal excellence and service to others.

Our Belief Statements:

• Upper Darby School District's academic programs are based on the following beliefs:

We believe:

• All individuals are capable of learning.
• Individuals learn in different ways and at different rates.
• Individuals have the right to be treated with respect and dignity.
• Students are unique individuals with varied talents and skills.
• Successful learning experiences build self-esteem.
• Learning is most effective in a caring environment where high standards of social interaction are maintained.
• Education should encourage individuals to acquire knowledge and attitudes necessary to live in a changing global society.
• Critical thinking, problem solving and decision-making are essential life skills.
• Updates in technology necessitate continuous personal and organizational adjustment.
• Professional development of all staff is vital to meet the changing needs of students and to reflect current best practices.
• The educational program must meet the needs of all learners and be responsive to the needs and resources of the community.
• Cultural and ethnic diversity is a valued strength of our community.
• Society benefits when individual rights are balanced with the needs of the group as a whole.
• Quality public education directly benefits the entire community.
• Lifelong learning is essential for all individuals.
• Education is the responsibility of the entire community, the school, the family, and, most importantly, the individual.

The Upper Darby School District is an equal opportunity education institution and does not discriminate in its educational programs, activities, or employment practices on the basis of race, color, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, ancestry, union membership, or any other legally protected category. Announcement of this policy is in accordance with state law, including the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act, and with federal law, including Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967, and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.