School Counselor

School Counselor  School Year)

Location:

New York, NY

Democracy Prep Public Schools is a college prep institution dedicated to educating scholars for success in college and beyond. Our mission includes civic engagement, global citizenship, arts, athletics, and excellent academics. School Counselors play a vital role in guiding scholars through a comprehensive 4‑year advising program for grades 9–12, helping them secure meaningful post‑secondary pathways aligned with their passions and long‑term goals.

• Mission‑Driven Postsecondary Champion: Passionate about Democracy Prep’s vision of college success and civic engagement for every scholar.
• Experienced Postsecondary Advisor: Well‑versed in college counseling/admissions and alternative post‑secondary pathways.
• Skilled Communicator and Writer: Excellent writer who can provide clear feedback on scholar essays and produce recommendation letters.
• Collaborative Connector: Builds meaningful relationships with families, staff, and college representatives, matching scholars to resources.
• Detail‑Oriented Data Manager: Maintains accurate student records, uses data to inform guidance strategies, and evaluates effectiveness.

College and Career Readiness

• Guide 12th‑grade students through college planning, list development, applications, personal statements, scholarships, and interview prep.
• Provide comprehensive academic counseling for grades 9‑12, addressing academic planning and social‑emotional development.
• Assist families with financial aid processes (FAFSA, TAP, CSS Profile) and aid selection decisions.
• Offer specialized guidance for non‑traditional pathways (military, vocational, apprenticeships, direct employment).
• Explore alternative education options aligning with interests and career goals.
• Coordinate SAT/ACT preparation programs, including logistics, fee waivers, and test‑taking strategies.
• Write official recommendation letters and support faculty recommendations.
• Monitor student progress toward post‑secondary goals using counseling systems.
• Analyze college outcome data to improve advising strategies.
• Collaborate with teachers to identify students who may benefit from academic interventions or acceleration.

Student Development

• Foster habits of success through individualized counseling: time management, self‑advocacy, goal‑setting.
• Provide ongoing guidance for academic challenges or transitions.
• Monitor progress and identify students needing targeted interventions.

Academic Oversight and Transition Support

• Oversee Credit Audits: review records for gaps, ensure graduation requirements are met, and develop individualized plans.
• Monitor Graduation Eligibility: track compliance with state and district benchmarks and provide targeted guidance.
• Support Transfer Students: assess transcripts, identify equivalencies, and create transition plans.

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree or counseling certification preferred.
• Prior experience in high‑school college counseling, admissions, or related advising role.
• Deep knowledge of college admissions and financial aid; familiarity with non‑college pathways a strong plus.
• Exceptional writing and communication skills, including drafting recommendation letters.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Comfort using data systems to track scholar progress.
• Ability to build trusting relationships with diverse scholars and families.
• Passion for educational equity and belief in every scholar’s potential.

Salary: $75,725.00 – $, commensurate with experience. Benefits include medical, vision, and dental insurance; 403(b) matching; parental leave; smartphone; laptop.

Democracy Prep is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will not discriminate against an applicant or employee based on race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, pregnancy, veteran or military status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, familial status, domestic violence victim status, or any other legally recognized protected basis under federal, state, or local laws, regulations, or ordinances.