Guidance Counselor

Guidance Counselor

Under limited supervision, plans, supervises and provides professional guidance services designed to help each student establish a strong academic, social, emotional and physical foundation so that he may be successful in school and life in the future. Provides prevention, intervention and crisis counseling services, and personal and academic support and assistance to students as appropriate. Ensures the maintenance of accurate, up-to-date and confidential student records. Reports to the assigned Principal.

Develops and implements a comprehensive guidance program plan for each assigned school. Conducts individual, small- and large-group, and classroom guidance counseling sessions as needed. Works to discover and develop special abilities of students. Works to resolve students' educational handicaps. Works with students on an individual basis in the solution of personal problems related to such problems as home and family relations, health and emotional adjustment, etc. Provides crisis intervention for students in immediate need. Advises administrators and faculty on matters of student discipline. Consults with parents, principals, nursing staff, teachers, school psychologists, special service personnel, and outside experts on individual cases as necessary. Makes referrals to other agencies and service providers as appropriate. Plans and/or participates in staff orientation and staff development activities. Provides in-service training in guidance for teachers and familiarizes the staff with the range of services offered by the student personnel services department. Takes an active role in interpreting the school's objectives to students, parents and the community at large; interprets the guidance program to the community. Ensures the maintenance of accurate, up-to-date and confidential student records; documents all counseling services and referrals performed; maintains confidentiality as required. Plans and administers the department budget; monitors expenditures and maintains financial records as required. Coordinates special events, projects or programs as assigned. Performs general administrative/office duties as required, including but not limited to composing reports and correspondence, entering data into the computer, compiling data for reports, copying and filing documents, conducting and attending meetings, responding to mail and telephone calls, etc. Operates various types of machinery and equipment including a computer, printer, typewriter, copier, fax machine, telephone, calculator, audio-visual equipment, etc.

Requires a Bachelor's degree in education, with required course work in school guidance counseling, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Prior teaching experience is desirable. Must possess or be eligible for S.C. certification as a school guidance counselor.