Reports To: PrincipalFLSA Classification: ExemptPosition PurposeThe Lower School Counselor facilitates students' personal, academic, and social-emotional development by providing guidance, counseling, and support services. Empowers students to overcome challenges, develop resilience, and achieve their full potential academically and personally, fostering a positive school environment and promoting holistic well-being.QUALIFICATIONS- Master’s Degree or certification in School Counseling- Three years of experience (independent school experience preferred, but not required)- Familiarity with Jewish culture, values, and traditions preferredThe ideal candidate will possess- Experience supporting executive functioning, emotional regulation, peer relationships, and identity development in elementary-aged students.- In-depth knowledge of child development, current best practices in meeting students' needs, and understanding of how social-emotional factors impact learning.- Experience providing individual and small group counseling, guidance lessons, parent education, and implementing learning plans and intervention strategies.- Ability to provide support and leadership to staff, maintain confidentiality, adhere to legal and ethical guidelines, and collaborate effectively with stakeholders.- Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with proficiency in organization, problem-solving, and teamwork.- Familiarity with community resources and referral networks to provide additional support for students and families.- Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying informed about the latest research and trends in school counseling.Essential Functions- Implementing a curriculum addressing the needs of all students in the domains of social-emotional development, learning behaviors, and personal growth.- Assisting students in acquiring knowledge, communication, and problem-solving skills that promote healthy relationships and academic achievement.- Providing developmentally appropriate, short-term counseling services to address issues that may interfere with students’ learning, social-emotional development, or overall well-being.- Creating positive relationships with students to foster personal growth and a spirit of service to others.- Coordinating with school staff to provide supportive instructional classroom activities that align with the values and mission of the school.- Maintaining a positive culture that supports student achievement and personal growth.- Designing and facilitating learning experiences for parents that nurture the home-school partnership.- Participating in the Student Support Team process by providing insight, support, and recommendations for interventions and accommodations based on identified student needs.- Providing immediate support to students during times of crisis and collaborating with school leadership and outside resources as needed.- Meeting with parents for formal conferences and informal meetings as needed.- Participating in student supervision and community responsibilities, including emergency drills, assemblies, field trips, lunchtime, and recess.- Participating in faculty and professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops.- Performing any other duties as assigned.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT- May work at a desk and computer for extended periods of time.- Work primarily in a traditional climate controlled classroom environment.- Work intermittently in outside weather conditions, including extreme heat and cold.