2026 - 2027 Upper School Counselor

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process. Upper School Counselor Summary: The Upper School (grades 9-12) seeks a dynamic and experienced school counselor to work collaboratively in support of the Upper School student body. The Counselor is a member of the Student Resource Team. Responsibilities Assessing and addressing students’ mental and emotional health concerns and supporting a learning environment that centers the social and emotional wellbeing of all our students. Working in partnership with the US Administrative Team and Teaching Faculty within the Upper School. Supporting parents by providing clear communication, therapy referrals, education, and guidance; addressing students’ needs through one‑on‑one meetings and pro‑social guidance. Teaching a Health and Wellness 9th Grade Seminar course, including ongoing curriculum development as new topics of importance arise. Planning Upper School education, assemblies, and programs to address perennial issues that older adolescents face, as well as ad‑hoc concerns that arise. Coordinating schedules to ensure counselor availability and scheduled programming for day, evening, and some weekend activities and events. Successful candidates will be flexible, organized, creative, and collaborative, with a sound psychological understanding of the development of adolescents, conflict resolution, and student and family support. SSFS seeks candidates who appreciate and support students who represent a broad range of learning variabilities, points of view, and cultural and social backgrounds, with a strong commitment to a progressive, dynamic, and diverse school community. Required Qualifications A Master’s in School Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or related field with a focus on adolescent development and significant counseling experience, 2‑years minimum. School counseling experience preferred; knowledge of and experience with the developmental, social, emotional, and cognitive needs of adolescents and how to address those within a school setting. Computer literacy and experience using Google Suite for administrative and instructional purposes, familiarity with database systems, and strong interpersonal and written communication skills. Counseling experience in a student‑centered environment; the ability to form trusting relationships with students, faculty, and families; consistent professionalism with and among all constituencies; and experience supporting students with a wide range of social‑emotional and/or academic needs. Strong listening, oral, and written communication skills are essential. Desired Qualifications Experience teaching adolescent health education. Experience with international students. Knowledge of Quaker educational philosophy is desirable. Summary of Benefits Salary: $75,000 – $85,000 yearly. Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family. Short‑term and long‑term disability coverage, and life insurance at no cost to employees. 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions. Generous paid time off, including holidays and parental leave. Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for personal and professional support. Financial aid available to children of SSFS employees. Discounts for after‑care and summer camp programs for employees’ children. Free parking, free lunch, and access to the library and gym facilities. Opportunities for professional development through tuition reimbursement, wellness programs, and ongoing initiatives. Beautiful, historic campus with walking paths; a smoke‑free, environmentally conscious community. Commitment to Diversity Sandy Spring Friends School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or a person's status as a qualified candidate with a disability in administration of its educational program, admission policies, financial aid program, staff hiring, and other school‑administered programs. Physical Requirements The ability to navigate stairs as part of daily routines; mobility around a large campus with uneven pavement; bending and squatting as required to participate in activities; lifting/carrying boxes up to 25 pounds; and the ability to maneuver as necessary within a regular classroom and office setting. #J-18808-Ljbffr