Adjustment Counselor (Long-Term Sub) [SY26-27

Adjustment Counselor (Long-Term Sub) [SY26-27]

Malden Public Schools;
Forestdale School – Malden, Massachusetts. Open in Google Maps.

Job : 5633767

Final date to receive applications: Posted until filled

Posted: Apr 08, 2026 4:00 AM (UTC)

Starting Date: Aug 24, 2026

This is a long‑term substitute posting, anticipated to last from 8/24/26 to 12/7/26.

The Malden Public Schools (MPS) is a richly diverse district within the Greater Boston area, accessible by the MBTA Orange Line train. Approximately 6,800 students represent 59 countries and speak 67 languages. We have one early‑learning center, five K‑8 schools, and one high school. MPS provides high expectations through rigorous instruction and culturally responsive practices. We foster a safe, collaborative environment that values diverse perspectives and growth mindset.

Forestdale School aims to be a model of continuous growth, supporting students in state mandated tests (MCAS, MCAS Alt, ACCESS). We nurture academic, social, and emotional development through PBIS, MTSS, and Caring School Communities. Teachers use Universal Design for Learning and emphasize inclusive practices. The school’s PRIDE acronym (Positivity, Respect, Independence, Determination, Excellence) guides student and staff behavior.

• DESE licensed as a School Social Worker/Adjustment Counselor required;
• LICSW, LCSW or LMHC licensure, or capacity to obtain licensure within the first 12 months of employment, required.

• Strong background in Positive Behavior Support and emotional regulation skills for young students via individual counseling and curriculum‑based strategies.
• Inclusive model of service delivery through cooperation with administrators, teachers, therapists, parents, and students.
• Ongoing consultation to administrators, teachers, and other professionals to address social, emotional, and academic needs.
• Participation in PBIS and RTI, collaborating on data analysis, intervention design, and progress monitoring.
• Support teachers in implementing behavior support plans in collaboration with the BCBA.
• Assess, interpret maladaptive behavior, and recommend interventions, treatments, and school‑based supports.
• Assist in providing behavioral and physical interventions when needed.

• Deliver individual and group counseling services for social and emotional well‑being.
• Co‑facilitate SLP groups (social skills, e.g., Social Thinking).
• Co‑facilitate with BCBA/OT groups (self‑regulation skills, e.g., Rainbow Dance).
• Facilitate whole‑group classroom lessons on self‑regulation skills (e.g., Zones of Regulation).

• Initial evaluation team: meet with parents/guardians, write comprehensive home/social assessments.
• Write IEP goals, progress reports, and annual review reports.
• Attend IEP meetings as needed.

• Make referrals, coordinate outreach to parents and outside agencies for mental health needs.
• Collaborate with school professionals and administrators during crisis situations, making appropriate referrals.
• Maintain working knowledge of applicable federal and state statutes.

• $135/day – Retired Teacher with DESE Certification
• $125/day – DESE Teaching Certification
• $100/day – No Certification

If a substitute holds a Bachelor’s degree or a Teaching License and serves in the same assignment for a 30‑day probationary period, they may receive a per‑diem rate of $210/day for the remainder of the assignment. The rate reverts to the daily rate at the assignment’s conclusion; moving to another long‑term assignment within a month does not require recertification of the probationary period.

Requests to move to the per diem rate at the end of the probationary period must be submitted to HR for confirmation.

Submit a letter of interest highlighting qualifications for the position via Talent Ed.

The Malden Public Schools is committed to cultivating a diverse, inclusive environment where differences are celebrated. We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, pregnancy, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, disability, and other protected characteristics, and prohibit retaliation against individuals who oppose such discrimination or participate in investigations.

• Citizenship, residency, or work visa required.

• Office of Human Resources
• 77 Salem Street
• Malden, Massachusetts 02148
• Phone:
• Email: hr