Special Education Counselor

Special Education Counselor

Primary

Purpose:

To assess special education eligible students for counseling as a related service, report results, develop the IEP, provide therapy and support, and update progress. Assist in developing and supporting behavior plans and social skills instruction, and in monitoring student academic and behavioral progress.

• Master’s Degree in counseling or a related field.
• Texas school counselor EC‑12 certification and/or special education counselor’s certification.
• Other credentials as specified in the State Board Policy.
• Knowledge of counseling procedures.
• Knowledge of assessing emotional and behavioral functioning for educational purposes.
• Knowledge of prevention and intervention strategies, including behavior management interventions.
• Strong consultation skills with an emphasis on effective communication (verbal and written), organization, and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of the ARD process and counseling as a related service within the IEP.
• Two years of teaching experience.

• Conduct counseling and/or emotional/behavioral assessments to determine eligibility as a related service.
• Develop and implement an individual education plan (IEP) for students, and monitor progress every six weeks.
• Provide all required documentation, including eligibility reports, students’ IEPs, and other compliance documents.
• Provide individual or small group counseling services to special education students as recommended by the ARD Committee and as outlined on the student’s IEP.
• Maintain accurate student records (e.g., IEPs, progress reports, SHARS billing tickets).
• Provide crisis counseling and/or interventions to students demonstrating need.
• Consult with parents, administrators, school personnel, and students about educational, emotional/behavioral, and social concerns.
• Provide professional development for staff and parents.
• Work closely with students and teachers to teach and reinforce social skills development.
• Assist in monitoring student academic and behavioral progress.
• Work cooperatively with students, parents, and school staff to create a positive climate conducive to conflict resolution and positive behavior supports.
• Foster collaborative education efforts among staff by supporting the district’s philosophy, mission, and commitment to site‑based shared decision‑making.
• Keep current with laws, policies, and procedures concerning special education.
• Participate in professional development activities to improve skills related to the role.
• Demonstrate loyalty within a team approach to working together for the students.
• Maintain effective communication with colleagues, parents, and students.
• Perform other duties as requested by the immediate supervisor.
• Follow district safety protocols and emergency procedures.
• Maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Citizenship, residency, or work visa required.