Social Worker, Guidance Counselor: Social​/Educational

Position:
School Counselor / School Social Worker

Job Summary:

The School Counselor and School Social Worker play a vital role in supporting the holistic development of students by addressing their physical, emotional, and academic needs. This position involves fostering a safe, supportive, and engaging learning environment in collaboration with teachers, staff, and families. The School Counselor and School Social Worker provide individualized and group support, promote positive behavior, and assist students in developing the skills and independence necessary for success.

By building strong relationships with students and stakeholders, the School Counselor and School Social Worker ensure students' academic and behavioral goals are effectively met while cultivating a collaborative and inclusive school community.

• Master's Degree in School Counseling
• IL PEL Endorsed in School Counseling
• Knowledge of child development, social-emotional learning, and evidence-based interventions
• Prior experience in a school setting or working with children and families (preferred but not always required for entry-level positions)
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including students, families, school staff, and community agencies

• Master's Degree in Social Work
• IL PEL Endorsed in School Social Work
• Knowledge of child development, social-emotional learning, and evidence-based interventions
• Prior experience in a school setting or working with children and families (preferred but not always required for entry-level positions)
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including students, families, school staff, and community agencies

Reports to: Building Principal or designee

• Provide counseling services to special education and general education students individually and in group settings
• The School Social Worker is part of the Multi‑Tiered System of Support working with students and teams at the Tier I, II, and III levels
• Conduct assessments of students' needs through observation, screening, interviewing, informal or formal assessments, consultation, and participation in special education staffing
• Consult on, develop, and implement behavioral incentive programs with individuals and/or groups and facilitate the sharing, organizing, and utilization of data
• Meet State and Federal special education guidelines by participating in the development of IEPs, functional behavioral analysis, behavior management plans, and writing behavioral goals and objectives
• Participate in IEP meetings in district schools to assist in assessing and developing special education programs for individual students
• Empower and advocate for students by educating them about their rights and responsibilities, teaching assertiveness skills, and promoting positive communication
• Conduct home visits with another staff member to promote parental involvement, resolve school‑related issues, and inform parents of school‑related topics
• Maintain confidentiality at all times regarding students and student information, in accordance with ethical standards
• Facilitate the effective utilization of community resources to enhance student success and well‑being, maintaining collaborative relationships with community, state, and private agencies
• Maintain standards of professional accountability through documentation, reporting, and planning of counseling services
• Enhance professional skills and knowledge by attending district staff meetings, conferences, and workshops
• Abide by all applicable laws and comply with all District policies and procedures (e.g., business department, attendance, computer/internet use, schedule, internal paperwork)
• Intervene during emergencies as needed and provide crisis intervention, including verbal de‑escalation and physical intervention for students in danger of harming themselves or others
• Remain current with applicable certification issues
• Teach social‑emotional strategies at various age/skill levels…