School Counselor
Opening Statement
The School Counselor at the Waldorf School of Baltimore will support the academic, social-emotional, and developmental needs of students from early childhood through eighth grade. The counselor works collaboratively with students, parents, teachers, and administrators to create a safe, inclusive, and supportive school environment. This position involves teaching social-emotional learning curriculum, providing responsive services, and strategic planning to promote student well-being and success.
The School Counselor is a full-time and benefited 12-month position.
About
Founded in 1971, the Waldorf School of Baltimore has been a full member of AWSNA since 1985. Our beautiful campus in northern Baltimore City is situated on a wooded hillside adjacent to Cylburn Arboretum. The school reflects the diverse nature of its community, drawing students from urban, suburban and rural areas. We are housed in our own beautiful purpose-built building overlooking the city.
Baltimore is vibrant and culturally rich, offering world-class music, art and restaurants; yet, it still has a small- town feel. New York, Washington and Philadelphia are a day trip away. Surrounded by the richness of the Chesapeake Bay, it is easily accessible to mountains and ocean beaches.
Essential Job Duties
The School Counselor has the authority to:
- Carry out the responsibilities of the position as described below.
- Collaborate and work directly with the Student Support Group.
- Inform the Academic Director of problems and issues which may interfere with the ability to carry out the responsibilities below.
Key Responsibilities:
Student Support
- Using support circles and other strategies, provide developmentally appropriate individual and group support for students dealing with personal or social challenges.
- Conduct classroom lessons addressing social-emotional learning topics and related content such as emotional regulation, peer relationships, conflict resolution, and executive functioning.
- Working with the Student Support Group (SSG), become familiar with and implement Kim John Payne’s program for Integrated Student Support and similar programs.
- Facilitate the Student Social Action Committee (SAC), and guide students in implementing strategies for peer-to-peer support.
- Contribute to the development of a safe and respectful school climate through restorative practices, anti-bullying, and anti-bias initiatives.
- Work with the SSG to assist students with transitions between grade levels and support eighth grade transitions to high school. Provide reports to the SSG as needed.
- Work with the Student Support Coordinator to develop and maintain the documentation of counseling services.
- Contribute to Student Learning Plans in collaboration with the SSG and faculty members.
- Maintain a tracking system for student data.
- Recommend outside services in collaboration with the SSG.
Faculty/Collegial Support
- Partner with teachers to support students’ behavioral and emotional needs in the classroom.
- Work collaboratively with faculty and the SSG to identify students at risk and implement early intervention strategies.
- Collaborate with the Academic Director to lead training for staff on integrated student support and other SEL initiatives.
- Network with school counselors in the area to build collegial community.
Parent/Caregiver Support
- Communicate with parents about students’ individual social and emotional needs.
- Facilitate and provide opportunities for parent education about social-emotional learning topics.
- Collaborate with outside support services and specialists (e.g., psychologists, social workers, physical and occupational therapists) when needed to support students and families.
- Review reports sent to parents of students with Student Learning Plans.
Accountability (supported by and reports to): This position is accountable to and receives individual support from the Academic Director. A mentor will provide support and expertise, as assigned.
Qualifications
Competencies, knowledge, and skills needed:
Essential:
- Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills, including a skill set in building trusting relationships with parents and navigating difficult conversations.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in counseling or a related field.
- Hold a current license in social work or counseling.
- Hold liability insurance.
- Become familiar and work within the AWSNA Principles for Schools.
Preferred:
- Experience working with children in early childhood and elementary/middle school settings.
- Experience with restorative justice and equitable practices.
The school will contribute towards professional development and CEUs.
Employment Details
The School Counselor is a full-time 12-month, benefited position. Salary range is $70,000-$80,000, depending on qualifications and experience.
To Apply
To apply, please send a cover letter and resume to Jennifer Larson, Academic Director, at jlarson@twsb.org.
