ABOUT OUR SCHOOL: We are a private, urban, Christian mission school (Pre-Kindergarten - 8th grade). Our class sizes range between 15 and 20 students. Teacher/Student Ratio is 1:15. The mission of The Freedom School is to provide a safe, nurturing, learning community where students of different beliefs, races, ethnicities and economic circumstances are reconciled to God and one another by experiencing forgiveness by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
COMPENSATION: starting pay is $24/hr
SUMMARY OF JOB FUNCTION: Demonstrate the competencies and behaviors needed to support students' academic & social/emotional learning. This includes helping middle school students become fully prepared to matriculate to high school by end of school year. Embrace and exemplify the school's core values found in our PEARLS (Perseverance, Excellence, Academics, Reconciliation, Love).
GENERAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: Duties include but are not limited to:
Individual Counseling: Provide one-on-one counseling sessions for students dealing with academic, personal, familial, or spiritual concerns. Utilize a strengths-based approach to empower students to overcome challenges and achieve their full potential. Create Behavior Improvement Plans as necessary in collaboration with Resource Coordinator and Classroom Teacher.
Group Counseling: Facilitate group counseling sessions addressing various topics such as peer relationships, self-esteem, conflict resolution and grief. Foster a supportive and inclusive environment for students to share and learn from one another. Supervise Nancy Mastin in her role as Character Education Coordinator
Attend Instructional Coordination Team meetings weekly to consult about students
Crisis Intervention: Offer immediate support and intervention in crisis situations, including but not limited to emotional distress, conflicts, and emergencies. Collaborate with school administrators and external resources when necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of students. Be available and responsive to daily Positive Behavior Intervention Support calls to assist students in regulating behaviors in and out of the classroom setting.
Academic Support: Assist students in setting academic goals, improving study skills, and addressing academic barriers to success. Work closely with teachers, parents, and Resource Coordinator to develop strategies for academic achievement and provide accommodations as needed.
Parent Collaboration: Establish and maintain open communication with parents/guardians to discuss student progress, concerns, and strategies for support. Offer parent workshops and resources on topics related to child development, parenting skills, and family dynamics.
Mental Health support of Staff: Be available to teachers, administrators, and other school staff to create a supportive and inclusive school environment. Provide consultation and staff emotional/conflict support regarding mental health issues and crisis prevention/response. Provide outside Health Care referrals as necessary.
Documentation and Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and confidential records of counseling sessions, assessments, and interventions in accordance with ethical and legal standards. Prepare reports and documentation as required by school policies and regulatory agencies.
Offer training: (The State of Missouri Offers a video and certificate for all mandated reporters, counselor would ensure all teachers have access to MR video and training) and support regarding Mandated reporting issues and maintain communication with the Department of Social Services when known reports have been made.
Liaison with the Title Counselor(s)- Provide support and information where necessary. Assist in the facilitation of getting referrals and information to and from teachers and parents. Have bimonthly updates regarding progress of students.
Participate, Attend and Support School Events: The School Counselor will attend and participate in all school events which include but are not limited to Open House, Parent Teacher Conferences, Professional Development, Staff Meetings, Staff Prayer, Field Day, Christmas Program, Black History Celebration and Team building events.
Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field from an accredited institution.
- Strong understanding of child and adolescent development, counseling theories, and evidence-based practices.
- Experience working with diverse student populations and addressing a range of social, emotional, and behavioral concerns.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and conflict resolution skills.
- Commitment to the values and mission of The Freedom School and willingness to integrate faith-based principles into counseling practice.
- Ability to sign and adhere to a Faith and Conduct Statement through parent ministry: Restore St. Louis.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical conduct in all interactions.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Understanding and working knowledge of Trust Based Relational Interventions and Trauma Informed Universal Care in school settings.
- Familiarity with Christian counseling approaches and integrating faith-based principles into counseling interventions.
- Knowledge of relevant laws, regulations, and best practices in school counseling.
- Experience using technology and data management systems for counseling purposes.
Please send resume to: [email protected].
Applications due by Aug 16, 2024.