Counselor

Position Type: Student Support Services/ Guidance Counselor Date Posted: 10/22/2026 Location: Harrisonville High School Date Available: 2027-2028 School Year Guidance Counselor Position Overview The Guidance Counselor supports the academic, career, social, and emotional development of students by implementing a comprehensive school counseling program aligned with district goals and student needs. The Guidance Counselor assists students in understanding their abilities, interests, aptitudes, and educational opportunities while helping them develop plans for academic success, personal growth, and future career pathways. The Guidance Counselor works collaboratively with students, families, teachers, administrators, support professionals, and community agencies to promote student achievement, well-being, and success. The Guidance Counselor maintains appropriate student records, protects confidentiality, coordinates assessments and referrals, and serves as an active member of the school community in support of the overall educational program. Required Qualifications Valid Missouri teaching certificate. At least two years of classroom teaching experience. Demonstrated knowledge of counseling practices and the academic, social, emotional, and developmental needs of youth. Commitment to maintaining professional ethics, confidentiality, and the well-being and success of all students. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities The successful candidate will demonstrate: Thorough understanding of child and adolescent development and the ability to establish positive, respectful relationships with students. Knowledge of effective counseling techniques, approaches, and practices that support student growth and development. Understanding of the role of school counseling within the educational program and the public school's relationship to the community and the people it serves. Knowledge of educational requirements, academic planning, graduation requirements, assessment interpretation, and career exploration. Ability to assist students in evaluating their aptitudes, interests, abilities, and educational and occupational opportunities. Ability to use assessment results and other relevant information to support student decision-making and educational planning. Strong organizational, planning, problem-solving, and time-management skills. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills. Ability to communicate effectively with individuals and groups through oral communication, written correspondence, and other appropriate methods. Ability to make thoughtful, informed decisions based on facts, professional knowledge, student needs, and sound judgment. Ability to accept constructive criticism professionally and use feedback to support continuous improvement. Knowledge of appropriate student recordkeeping practices and the importance of maintaining confidentiality. Ability to recognize student needs and make appropriate referrals to school-based services and outside agencies. Commitment to professional integrity, ethical conduct, and the policies and procedures of the district. Ability to work collaboratively with teachers, administrators, families, community agencies, and other professionals to support student success. Commitment to maintaining current knowledge of innovative developments in counseling practices and approaches. Student Counseling & Support Implement the district's Comprehensive Guidance Plan in accordance with district goals, student needs, and applicable requirements. Provide counseling support to students to promote academic achievement, personal growth, social and emotional development, and future planning. Assist students in identifying their interests, aptitudes, abilities, strengths, and areas for growth. Help students develop educational and occupational plans that align with their identified aptitudes, abilities, interests, and goals. Provide appropriate guidance to students experiencing academic, personal, social, or other concerns affecting their educational progress. Recognize student needs and make appropriate referrals to specialized school services, community resources, and outside agencies when necessary. Maintain awareness of available school and community services designed to support youth and their families. Work cooperatively with professional colleagues to promote the overall objectives of public education and the counseling program. Encourage students to take responsibility for their educational decisions, personal development, and future planning. Academic Planning, Assessment & Student Progress Assist students in evaluating their academic progress, educational opportunities, aptitudes, and abilities through the interpretation of assessment results and other relevant information. Direct and coordinate the administration of group assessments as assigned. Interpret test scores and other pertinent data to assist students in making informed educational and occupational decisions.Monitor student grades, academic credits, grade promotion requirements, and other applicable academic progress indicators. Assist students in developing and maintaining educational plans that support academic progress and future goals. Collaborate with teachers, administrators, and other school personnel to identify student needs and provide appropriate support. Support the implementation and coordination of programs and services designed to improve student achievement and educational outcomes. Maintain accurate, timely, and appropriate student records in accordance with district policies and applicable requirements. Protect the confidentiality of student records, assessment information, counseling communications, and other sensitive information in accordance with applicable policies and laws. Family, School & Community Engagement Establish and maintain positive, professional relationships with students, families, teachers, administrators, and other school personnel. Communicate appropriately with parents and guardians regarding student academic progress, educational planning, and support needs. Work collaboratively with families and school personnel to identify strategies and resources that promote student success. Maintain an understanding of the relationship between the school, families, community organizations, and agencies that provide services to youth. Make appropriate referrals to school-based services and outside agencies when additional support is needed. Respond to requests, questions, concerns, misunderstandings, and difficulties through appropriate professional and administrative channels. Participate in the total educational program of the school and demonstrate interest in student activities and accomplishments both inside and outside the classroom. Collaboration & Professional Practice Collaborate with teachers, administrators, district coordinators, directors, and other professionals to support student learning, development, and achievement. Maintain effective communication and working relationships with building staff, central-office staff, and other district personnel. Work cooperatively with colleagues in the supervision, coordination, and implementation of counseling services and related educational programs. Maintain current knowledge of innovative developments in counseling techniques, strategies, and approaches. Participate in professional organizations and activities that contribute to professional growth and excellence. Pursue appropriate professional development and continuing education opportunities, subject to applicable district procedures and administrative approval. Demonstrate sound professional judgment, ethical conduct, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Follow established district procedures when addressing student concerns, professional matters, and administrative issues. Safety, Records & Professional Responsibilities Maintain appropriate professional boundaries and protect student privacy and confidentiality. Follow all Board of Education policies, administrative procedures, district expectations, and applicable state and federal laws affecting the performance of assigned duties. Attend regular and special meetings as required by the administration. Follow administrative directions and established procedures related to the implementation of the district's educational and counseling programs. Handle requests, concerns, misunderstandings, and difficulties through appropriate administrative channels. Work cooperatively with administration and staff throughout the district. Perform other duties and assume additional responsibilities as assigned by the Building Principal and/or Assistant Principal. Professional Expectations The Guidance Counselor is expected to: Place student success, well-being, and educational development at the center of counseling decisions and professional practice. Maintain high standards of professional ethics, integrity, confidentiality, and responsibility. Demonstrate sound judgment and make informed decisions that support student needs and the goals of the district. Establish positive, respectful, and professional relationships with students, families, colleagues, administrators, and community partners. Accept constructive feedback professionally and use it as an opportunity for growth. Maintain current professional knowledge and skills in school counseling and student support practices. Work collaboratively and constructively with colleagues and administrators to support the overall educational program. Follow district policies, administrative procedures, and applicable legal requirements. Represent the school and district in a professional and positive manner. Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement and student success throughout the school and district. Supervisory & Reporting Relationships Reports to: Building Principal and/or Assistant Principal. Works collaboratively with: Students, teachers, administrators, district coordinators, directors, families, school support personnel, community agencies, and other district personnel. Working Conditions & Employment Terms Certified staff position. Salary according to the district's current certified staff salary schedule. Employment is for 9½ to 10 months, as applicable to the specific assignment. Employment contracts are typically offered in March, with the contract effective July 1. Continued employment and contract renewal are subject to the applicable review process, Board of Education approval, and district procedures. Reemployment recommendations are determined by April 15, in accordance with district procedures. Leave, insurance, retirement, and other fringe benefits are provided in accordance with applicable Board policies and negotiated agreements. Work hours and additional time are based on student needs, counseling program requirements, and assigned responsibilities. Opportunities for professional development and continuing professional preparation are available with prior administrative approval. Opportunities to attend appropriate professional meetings and conferences at district expense may be available in accordance with district procedures. Employees are encouraged to participate in professional organizations and activities that contribute to continued professional growth and excellence. The Guidance Counselor is expected to work cooperatively with administration and staff throughout the district. #J-18808-Ljbffr Harrisonville Schools