Counselor

High School Counselor

Vertex Academy is seeking a committed, compassionate, and mission-aligned High School Counselor with a strong background in mandated and at-risk counseling. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in crisis intervention, compliance, and student support services — while also contributing to a school culture rooted in high expectations, character formation, and care.

This is a highly collaborative role, working closely with teachers, administrators, families, and external service providers to ensure that every student — especially those facing academic, emotional, or behavioral challenges — has the support they need to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

Mandated Counseling & Crisis Response

• Deliver individual and group counseling services as required by IEPs, 504 plans, or behavioral intervention plans.
• Maintain accurate documentation and service logs in compliance with legal and district mandates.
• Respond to student crises, including risk assessments and referrals for mental health, domestic issues, substance use, and other urgent concerns.
• Serve as the primary liaison to outside service providers, including mental health agencies, hospitals, and child welfare services.
• Participate in mandated reporting, threat assessments, and crisis management procedures as required by law and school policy.

Support for At-Risk Students

• Identify students who are chronically absent, disengaged, or exhibiting at-risk behaviors and develop proactive intervention plans.
• Collaborate with the MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports) team to coordinate wraparound services and monitor student progress.
• Lead reentry planning and support for students returning from suspension, hospitalization, or other prolonged absences.
• Provide counseling support for students struggling with social-emotional regulation, peer relationships, or family stressors.

Collaboration & Compliance

• Attend IEP, 504, SST, and RTI meetings as the student support representative.
• Ensure that all counseling services are delivered in accordance with state and federal regulations.
• Partner with the Leadership Team and the Dean of Students to align counseling efforts with schoolwide culture and restorative practices.
• Work closely with families to ensure they are informed, supported, and connected to community-based resources.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in School Counseling, Social Work, or a related field (required).
• New York State Certification in School Counseling (required).
• At least 2 years of experience providing mandated or clinical counseling services in a high school or urban setting.
• A deep, abiding belief in the infinite potential of our students
• An expansive sense of your own agency
• A hunger for feedback from all stakeholders and a commitment to continuous improvement
• Strong understanding of IDEA, Section 504, and FERPA regulations.
• A calm, grounded presence, with the ability to de-escalate conflict and build trust with students and families.
• Deep alignment with Vertex's mission, values, and commitment to student growth.
• Proficiency in Spanish (preferred)

Compensation and Benefits

Vertex Partnership Academies offers a competitive compensation package, including:

• The salary range for this position is $85,000 - $110,000; offer will be commensurate with the candidate's years of experience and credentials.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
• Paid time off and holidays
• Professional development opportunities
• A mission-driven, supportive working environment

Physical Requirements

This role may require lifting and carrying items weighing up to 20 pounds unassisted, including assisting coworkers when needed. Requires frequent bending, reaching, repetitive hand movements, standing, walking, squatting, sitting, and looking at a computer screen for long periods at a time.

EEO Statement

Vertex Partnership Academies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment; including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, and transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.