School Guidance Counselor

Job Description

Guidance Counselor

Reports To: Principal / Head of School
Position Type: Full-Time / Salaried

Job Summary:

The Guidance Counselor supports the academic, spiritual, emotional, and social development of all students. Grounded in Christian values, the counselor helps students navigate their educational journey, personal challenges, and future planning while collaborating with parents, teachers, and administration to foster a Christ-centered, nurturing environment.

Primary Responsibilities: Spiritual & Emotional Support

• Provide individual and group counseling rooted in biblical principles and emotional wellness.

• Identify students struggling emotionally or spiritually and offer support or referrals as needed.

• Uphold confidentiality while exercising wise Christian counsel in accordance with school policy.

• Provide prayer, encouragement, and scriptural guidance in appropriate moments.

Academic Counseling

• Support student academic progress through goal setting, study strategies, and time management.

• Monitor academic performance and intervene when students fall behind or face learning difficulties.

• Collaborate with teachers to create academic improvement plans when necessary.

• Assist with student placement, transitions between grades, and promotion tracking.

College & Career Readiness (Middle & High School)

• Guide students and families through college preparation, career exploration, and scholarship opportunities.

• Host workshops on college applications, financial aid, career planning, and goal setting.

• Assist with Dual Enrollment, SAT/ACT preparation, and vocational pathways.

Behavioral Support & Conflict Resolution

• Address student behavior concerns in collaboration with the Dean of Students or administration.

• Mediate conflicts between students or between students and staff using biblical reconciliation principles.

• Provide restorative support strategies rather than punitive approaches whenever possible.

Parental & Teacher Consultation

• Maintain regular communication with parents about student progress and concerns.

• Partner with teachers to identify and support students' unique learning and emotional needs.

• Attend parent-teacher conferences when appropriate to offer guidance and recommendations.

Program Development & Implementation

• Organize social-emotional learning programs, chapel topics, and student workshops.

• Develop and implement initiatives that promote a safe and spiritually uplifting campus culture.

• Coordinate or support student mentorship programs and peer counseling initiatives.

Crisis Intervention

• Respond promptly and compassionately to crises (e.g., grief, trauma, family emergencies).

• Provide referrals to licensed mental health professionals when issues exceed school-based support.

• Maintain safety protocols for students at risk of harm to self or others.

Compliance & Documentation

• Maintain accurate and confidential student records.

• Assist with documentation related to IEPs, 504s, behavioral plans, and accommodations.

• Stay informed of legal and ethical guidelines regarding student care and reporting.

Professional Development

• Engage in ongoing training related to counseling, adolescent development, and Christian education.

• Remain current with guidance counseling best practices and educational laws.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Counseling, Psychology, Education, or related field (Master’s preferred).

• Active faith in Jesus Christ and a demonstrated commitment to Christian education.

• Previous experience in counseling or educational guidance (preferred).

• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team-centered environment.

Expectations:

• Maintain a visible presence on campus and build relationships with students and staff.

• Be proactive, responsive, and available throughout the school day.

• Promote and model Christian character, grace, and truth in all interactions.