School Counselor; Pool

Position: School Counselor (Applicant Pool)

Job Title: School Counselor (Applicant Pool) – Elementary or Secondary
Location: TBD
Reports To: Building Principal
Work Schedule/FLSA Status: per negotiated agreement / Exempt

Salary

Schedule:

2024/25 – Step 1, Bachelor's: $50,500;
Master's: $55,550
2025/26 – Step 1, Bachelor's: $51,200;
Master's: $57,820
Salary credits may be awarded for applicable experience. Placement on the salary schedule follows the negotiated agreement.

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. 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 monitor the progress of their assigned students, focus on improving school connectedness, and support students’ (K‑12) preparation for college, career, and life.

Knowledge,

Skills, And Abilities

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree and at least 6 hours of graduate coursework toward a Master’s Degree in school counseling. Master’s Degree preferred.
• 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 oral and written communication skills.
• 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 willingness and ability to comply with the standards for ethical and professional performance established by the State Board of Education.
• Ability to foster positive human relationships and work effectively with students, staff, parents, and the community.
• A willingness and demonstrated commitment to continuous improvement of education quality.

Essential Performance Responsibilities

• Develop students’ cognitive capacity and respect for learning.
• Positively foster students’ self‑esteem.
• Work with and understand a diverse student population.
• Integrate leadership, technology, and communication into the curriculum.
• Plan for and guide the learning process to help students achieve program objectives.
• Maintain an atmosphere conducive to learning.
• Implement useful diagnostic and progress assessment measures.
• Select and use effective instructional methods and learning materials.
• Establish a cooperative relationship with all assigned students.
• Maintain open lines of communication with parents, guardians, and staff.
• Engage in professional growth activities through an ongoing program of job‑related knowledge and skill development.
• Work collaboratively to achieve the overall purpose of the school’s program and support the District’s vision, aims, and goals.
• Integrate leadership, technology, and communication themes with a diverse population.

Additional Duties

Perform other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators designated by the Superintendent.

Equipment

May require the ability to use SMART boards and iPads in addition to basic office equipment such as computers, copiers, scanners, and fax machine. Must always comply with OPS’s guidelines for equipment use.

Travel

Limited travel may be requested.

Physical And Mental Demands, Work Hazards

• Respond rapidly to emergency situations.
• Have organization, time management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Work in school building environments.

Interrelations

• Contact with district personnel and other stakeholders.
• Work under direct supervision of building administration to complete day‑to‑day tasks.
• Work with a diverse population requiring tact and diplomacy.
• Understand and respond appropriately to stakeholder needs and maintain a positive attitude with all.
• Interact with all internal and external stakeholders in a friendly, professional manner and provide quick, responsive service.

Employee Punctuality and Appearance

• Employees are expected to perform all assigned duties and work all scheduled…