School Counselor

Position Purpose:  The OPS School Counseling framework is built on a strengths-based foundation. Strengths-based school counseling focuses on identifying strengths and promoting development. By assuming a more proactive role, students are served more effectively. School counseling services are delivered via curriculum, individual student planning, and responsive services with a focus on being data/results driven to ensure accountability.

OPS school counselors are responsible for monitoring the progress of their assigned students.  School counselors focus on improving school connectedness to assist students and families in overcoming barriers that are impacting student success. The purpose of our School Counseling program (and our school counselors) is to support students’ (K-12) preparation for college, career and life.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Education: Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in school counseling from an accredited college or university.
• A valid NE Teaching Certificate or the ability to obtain one with appropriate endorsement(s) in School Counseling.
• A demonstrated philosophy that all students can and will learn.
• Excellent attendance record
• Excellent communication skills oral and written
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of Best Instructional Practices
• Positive interpersonal skills
• Professional verification of successful classroom teacher performance and/or student teaching experience.
• Evidence of the willingness and the ability to comply with the standards for ethical and professional performance established by the State Board of Education.
• This individual will exhibit skills pertinent to foster positive human relationships and the ability to work effectively with students, staff, parents and the community
• A willingness and demonstrated abilities conducive to a continuous quest for quality education.

Essential Performance Responsibilities

• Developing students’ cognitive capacity and respect for learning
• Positively fostering students’ self-esteem.
• Working with and understanding a diverse student population.
• Integration of leadership, technology, and communication in to the curriculum.
• Planning for and guiding the learning process to help student achieve program objectives.
• Maintaining an atmosphere conducive to learning.
• Implementing useful diagnostic and progress assessment measures.
• Selecting and using effective instructional methods and learning materials.
• Establishing a cooperative relationship with all assigned students.
• Maintaining open lines of communication with parents, guardians and staff.
• Engaging in professional growth activities through an ongoing program of job related knowledge and skill development.
• Working collaboratively to achieve the overall purpose of the school’s program and support the District’s vision, aims and goals.
• Integrating the themes of leadership, technology, and communication with a diverse population.